road trip to california from chicago

Road Trip from Chicago to Los Angeles

If an adventure through cactus-filled deserts, fascinating canyon landscapes and plenty of national parks sounds appealing, the road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles will be perfect for you. The road trip takes you through the mesmerizing south-west where there is plenty for you to see.

The 2,000-mile road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles takes 29 hours to drive. Along the two routes, stops include Rocky Mountain, Grand Canyon, Zion and Joshua Tree National Parks as well as Albuquerque, Denver, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City and Route 66.

With so much to see along the way, read on to make sure you don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime road trip experience.

How far is Los Angeles from Chicago and how long will the road trip take?

Whichever route you take, there's no hiding the fact that the road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles is a long one. On either route, you will cross 6 states before arriving at the beautiful state of California.

Taking the shorter option, the Northern Route from Chicago to Los Angeles covers 2,000 miles and takes around 29 hours of driving.

For some very different but equally memorable sights, the Southern Route takes you through Albuquerque and Oklahoma City, along stretches of the iconic Route 66. This option takes two hours longer to drive, covering approximately 150 more miles.

Both pack a mighty punch when it comes to memorable attractions and breath-taking landscapes.

Both routes are fairly straightforward and there is only a minor chance of you ending up in congestion outside the major cities. Because of the length of the drive, and because of the multitude of exciting places you could visit, it is advisable that you invest at least 4 days in order to make the most out of the trip.

Best road trip route from Chicago to Los Angeles

There is no best route for the road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles. There are two excellent paths you could take on your way to California – Southern and Northern, both of which are thrilling and scenic.

The Northern Route goes through Denver and Las Vegas and the Southern Route takes you through St. Louis, Oklahoma City and Albuquerque as well as the iconic Route 66. Both routes are a great way to experience the gorgeous south-west before culminating in the state of California.

An excellent option if you want to cover every basis is to take either the Northern or the Southern Route on your way to Los Angeles and the other one on your way back. If you find yourself with more time at your disposal, don't shy away from making as many stops as you like.

The Northern Route

After exiting Chicago on Interstate 290, merge onto Interstate 88 westward and follow it all the way across Illinois. Once you arrive at Davenport, hop on to Interstate 80 and drive through Des Moines, carrying on past Omaha.

Just before Pawnee National Grassland, near the state border with Colorado, switch to Interstate 76 and soon after you'll arrive in Denver.

There's plenty to see in the area so consider making a detour towards Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, Rocky Mountain National Park or White River National Forest.

Once you're done, drive down Interstate 70 into Utah, past Canyonlands National Park and Fishlake National Forest.

At Sulphurdale take Interstate 15 where soon after you will have the possibility of detouring to Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park, which would both make for a stunning stop-off.

Alternatively, once you get to St. George you could make a stop at Kaibab National Forest before continuing south along the I-15 to Las Vegas.

Take your time in Las Vegas because there are quite a few places you could visit in and around the city such as Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and more.

Once you are ready to depart towards your final destination, you should stick to the I-15 until the final stage of the drive. Drive past Mojave National Preserve in between Angeles National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest before joining the I-10 which takes you into the heart of Los Angeles.

The Southern Route

Take Interstate 55 out of Chicago, southward through Bloomington and Springfield then on to St. Louis. A great option for a detour here is to go further south to Shawnee National Forest before continuing your journey along the Southern Route.

Leaving St. Louis on Interstate 44 you can either make a stop at Mark Twain National Forest or continue on the main route towards Tulsa into Oklahoma City, where you can rest up for the night.

On your way out of Oklahoma City, get on to the notorious Route 66 and be on the lookout for exciting, memorable attractions along the road. Route 66 runs parallel to the I-40, and eventually the roads will merge to take you on through the desert landscape to Amarillo, but you can join the I-40 sooner if you need to pick up the pace a little.

Stop at Albuquerque or visit Cibola National Forest before you reach Flagstaff, Arizona, where you have a choice of more excellent stops. Take some time to visit the stunning Grand Canyon National Park in the north or Coconino and Prescott National Forests in the south.

Stick on the I-40 and make another stop at Mojave National Preserve right after you cross into California. Join the I-15 at Barstow which will take you into Los Angeles. Consider another short detour to San Bernardino National Forest or Angeles National Forest for a last hike through the wilderness before you arrive in the city.

Best places to stop between Chicago and Los Angeles

The road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles is action-packed and will take you through multiple cities where you can find plenty of hotel options.

Here are some of the excellent stopover options that the route has to offer.

Relax in style in Denver

Denver marks the halfway point on the Northern Route, and where better to stop than this fantastic city nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The city is the perfect place to base yourself it you want to spend some time exploring the Rockies, with easy day trips including Dinosaur Ridge, Rocky Mountain National Park and the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway.

If you'd rather ditch the car for a day or so, Denver has its own Art Museum and Contemporary Art Museum, or visit Museo de las Americas for a celebration of Latin American culture.

On such a long road trip, you're going to want to stay somewhere you can relax and recharge, and The Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel meets the brief perfectly . It's an exceptional hotel where you can spoil yourself with beautifully furnished rooms, located in walking distance from most of the city's popular attractions.

You might want to visit the coffee house after breakfast before heading out for a walk around the city, or you could start your morning at the on-site fitness center. A great way to welcome the afternoon is in the outdoor swimming pool or on the sun terrace with a glass of wine.

The prices for booking a room at the Sheraton Denver Hotel are reasonable and you will be met with great service all year round. This resort is among the highest rated in the city, and accordingly, your stay will be worth every penny.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

See the stars in Las Vegas

Just over four hours out of Los Angeles, Las Vegas makes for a memorable final stop on the Northern Route.

While you're visiting the city that needs no introduction, visit the casinos or one of the city's no-expense-spared shows for the iconic Vegas experience. Or for two very different perspectives on the history city, try out the Mob Museum or the Nevada State Museum.

In a city of lavish resorts that come with budget-blowing price tags, the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Elara Center Strip Las Vegas offers a more affordable but still extremely well appointed accommodation option close to the main strip .

With parking available on site it's particularly convenient for travelers taking this epic road trip, and once you arrive you'll be in walking distance of many of the sights, bars and restaurants that Last Vegas has to offer.

With its floor-to-ceiling windows and marble bathrooms you'll certainly feel the luxury touches of this hotel, even before you head to the tropical outdoor pool to cool off. Some of the rooms here even have a stunning view of the famous Bellagio Fountain show.

[readmore href/stay/las-vegas-our-favorite-places-to-stay]Click here for more great hotel options[/readmore]

Be charmed by Oklahoma City

Situated almost half way between Chicago and Los Angeles on the Southern Route, Oklahoma City is a charming place to stop.

Get a bird's eye view of the city from the top of the huge ferris wheel on the riverbank, before enjoying your pick of street food in the open air. Or take a Water Taxi ride along the Bricktown Canal to see the city from another perspective.

If you want to get active, visit the Boathouse District for a whole range of water sport options, or just take a walk or cycle ride along the river bank at your own pace.

With its sleek design and convenient location, The Omni Oklahoma City is a great setting for a relaxing night after a long drive . If you feel like spending a lazy day at the resort, you can even treat yourself to a pampering session at one of the wellness facilities.

At the end of the day, head on over to the heated roof top pool, where you could enjoy an exquisite evening underneath the night sky. The panoramic view from the roof top is magnificent, so you won't want to miss out on it.

Where to stay when you reach luxurious Los Angeles

After several days on the road, you'll want to make sure your stay in your final destination is a memorable one, and Conrad Los Angeles certainly won't disappoint.

With impressive views over the LA financial district, this five-star hotel is modern and stylish, with lots of natural textiles and wood in the design to contrast against the city skyline peeping through the floor to ceiling windows.

There are plenty of ways to unwind here including making use of the spa and outdoor, year-round, swimming pool. After a busy day make sure to head to one of the four on-site restaurants, with choices including San Laurel serving up American and Spanish dishes, and Agua Viva giving a taste of Asia.

Located in the Broadway Theatre District, this is also the perfect place to stay if you want to see a show while you're in the city

Alternatively, for a really show-stopping end to your epic road trip, The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles is a marvellous monument soaring into the skyline of downtown LA . It boasts luxurious suites and an excellent location - dive into the heated swimming pool or the hot tub, both of which are located on the roof top where you can admire the mesmerizing panoramic view.

Things to see on a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles

The road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles takes you through some of the most iconic and nationally prized attractions the south-west has to offer.

You might want to take at least a week to visit and admire some of these fascinating places.

Northern Route

• Starved Rock State Park - The picturesque sandstone canyons and incomparable hiking trails are just two of the reasons to visit this fantastic park.
• Adventureland Park - Located near Des Moines and boasting around 100 rides, Adventureland Park is up there as one of the finest amusement parks in all of the States.
• Rocky Mountain National Park - The ultimate place to experience the Rocky Mountains, this park is best enjoyed via a stroll along Trail Ridge Road with a camera in hand. Keep in mind that the national park uses a timed entry permit system. Please check the national park's website to see if you need to make a reservation before your visit.
• Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest - Two beautiful complements to the Rocky Mountain experience, these fabulous forests are home to countless animal species; you'll want to spend some extra time here in the fall to appreciate the lovely foliage!
• White River National Forest - Sporting over 2 million acres of wooded areas and innumerable trails, this forest is also a haven for wildlife, courtesy of the White River.
• Arches National Park - One of Utah's premiere attractions, this park gets its name from the hundreds of arch-shaped sandstone formations; be sure to snap a photo by the massive Delicate Arch, arguably the most iconic formation in the park. You might need to make a reservation for a timed-entry permit while visiting Arches National Park. Please check the national park's website for up-to-date information.
• Canyonlands National Park - “Chiseled” by the Green and Colorado Rivers, this wondrous park boasts a variety of geological landscapes and the kinds of scenic vistas you can't find anywhere else in North America.
• Fishlake and Dixie National Forests - If you're looking to venture into the heart of Utah or are planning to spend time in Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, an afternoon in these green-meets-rocky forests is a must.
• Zion National Park - Named after the breathtakingly beautiful Zion Canyon, this place is a product of forests, deserts, and lakes converging to form one of America's definitive national parks. If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.
• Valley of Fire State Park - The park gets its name from its red sandstone formations, which look like they're on fire every sunrise; a camera is a must if you want to make the most of this place.
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area - Located just out of Las Vegas, this area combines the beautiful Mojave landscape and the view from Hoover Dam to create the ultimate desert experience.
• Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area - Home to towering sandstone formations and countless fascinating petroglyphs, this conservation area serves as the perfect backdrop to The Entertainment Capital of the World. You might need to make a reservation for a timed-entry slot, so check the official website before traveling.
• Mojave National Preserve - Arguably the crowning jewel of the Mojave Desert, Mojave National Preserve features unforgettable desert landscapes and the iconic ghost town of Kelso.

Southern Route

• Mark Twain National Forest – Immerse yourself in mid-west nature and admire lush tall trees, crystal-clear rivers and magical water cascades.
• Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest - If the weather conditions allow for it, this is one of the finest spots in the area for enjoying a swim or spending an afternoon fishing.
• Tonto National Forest – Arizona's largest national forest is a great spot for recreational activities, and with it technically being part of Phoenix, you can from here to the city in no time at all.
• Petrified Forest National Park – Offering a unique sightseeing experience, this park gets its name from its abundance of petrified wood, although it houses a variety of other fossils too.
• Route 66 - America's “Mother Road” stretches from Chicago to the West Coast, and its legacy has been set in stone by innumerable literature, music, and movie references.
• Prescott National Forest - Named after the city of Prescott, Arizona's former capital, you'll want to explore every inch of this lovely forest before pulling into the city.
• Coconino National Forest - This iconic forest offers the perfect blend of lush greenery and Sedona's trademark red rock formations.
• Grand Canyon National Park - Possibly the most popular national landmark in all of North America, the Grand Canyon is a geological marvel that has something to offer no matter the season.
• Cibola National Forest – Boasting everything from prairies to sky-high wooded areas, Cibola National Forest deserves at least a single full day of your attention.
• San Bernardino and Angeles National Forests – After spending some time in Nevada, these gorgeous forests are the perfect segue into the much-greener California.
• Joshua Tree National Park - Another Mojave Desert highlight, this park gets its name from the abundance of Joshua trees that call it home.

Best time to go on a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles

The best periods to go on a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles are between March and May as well as September through October. During these months, the city is less crowded and the weather is perfect for a stroll past all the outdoor attractions.

The best time to visit Los Angeles is in spring, when average daytime temperatures are in the mid-70s Fahrenheit without any extreme weather changes like heavy rains or deep smog. Moreover, due to lower rates of tourist visitations, it is likely that you'll find great discounts and deals on booking.

You can also check out Denver's epic Cinco de Mayo celebrations along the way. With a significant Mexican American population, the city goes all out for the celebration, and you'll join up to half a million people taking in the festivities.

Fall is also considered a preferable time for a getaway in the “City of Angels”. Great deals on rooms are still available from September to November as long as you plan in advance. Temperatures are a tad bit cooler, hovering around low-70s.

A winter trip shouldn't be ruled out even though rain is very common. Temperatures gravitate towards the upper 60s and with some warm clothes and an umbrella, you'll do just fine. The summer weather could be at times uncomfortable but you can always head out to the beautiful Oceanside and cool off with a drink.

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USA Road Trip: Chicago to California on I-80

Posted By: theweekendjetsetter August 10, 2017

Two months ago, I spontaneously relocated to California for a job opportunity. A month before the move, I’d never even considered living in San Francisco. It sounded expensive, and filled with traffic. While it certainly is both of those, I wasn’t about to pass up my dream job (and I have an affinity for reinventing myself life completely every year, apparently). So here I am!

Once my cross-country move was confirmed, I got excited: it was time to road trip across the U.S.! I’d never gone on a “real” American road trip before, where the journey took more than one day’s drive. How had I been to Morocco and Ecuador, but not explored the heart of my own country?!

There are several routes you can take between Chicago and San Francisco. But since we only had around five days to make the trip, we took the most direct: the I-80 road trip. Yes, that’s one road for 30+ hours. When you get on the highway, your GPS will say: “continue on I-80 for 2,000-something miles.” Pretty insane!

With limited time until the new job started, I planned the trip carefully and made the most of the opportunities to stop along the way. But despite careful planning and research, one of my favorite pit stops ended up being somewhere that wasn’t even on my radar before pulling off the highway. Funny how that works out, isn’t it?

Let’s take it state by state:

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Iowa: A Great Place to Gain a Pound

Iowa is what you’d expect Iowa to be: mostly farm land. I’d never been to the state before and didn’t spend much time there. But we did make one pit stop recommended by an Iowa-born Chicago friend at Zombie Burger in Iowa City. Here, you can stuff yourself with a tasty burger situated between two grilled cheese sandwiches. How American is that?

You’ll probably keep eating for the rest of the trip (what’s a road trip without snacks?) – but you won’t need to. If you ever find yourself driving through Iowa, I highly recommend it.

Oh, and the Iowa sunsets are pretty rad too.

Nebraska: A Place That Will Make You Miss Iowa

I’m not going to lie. While driving through Iowa, I thought to myself in a snobby, northeasterner way: yowza, this state is boring. It’s flat, consists mostly of farm land, and the “city” of Iowa City looked suspiciously like a suburb.

But the next day, I took it all back. I missed Iowa every one of the 455 miles I spent in Nebraska.

If you live in Nebraska, I’m sorry to hate on your state. I’m sure there are some cool things there, but the drive along I-80 isn’t one of them.

It’s basically this for around six hours:

There was one thing that impressed me in Nebraska. The city of Sidney, where outdoor retailer Cabela’s is headquartered, has the coolest Subway location in America. It’s in a log cabin-like building, next to a Union Pacific caboose.

So if you ever find yourself driving through Nebraska, craving a $5 footlong (are they $6 now?), pull over in Sidney.

Wyoming: IT HAS MOUNTAINS

After driving through Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska, nothing is more exciting than a varied landscape. I felt like a sailor spotting land for the first time in months when I saw a mountain rising up in the distance.

I also started to see herds of pronghorn, animals that look similar to antelopes. They were everywhere!

After stopping to snap pictures of some pronghorn near Elk Mountain, we spent the night in Rock Springs , a small city with plenty of lodging options. The best bet is a motel right off the highway with a great Mexican restaurant (Santa Fe Southwest Grill) attached. There’s nothing like being able to roll right into bed after an oversized portion of enchiladas and a margarita.

The reason for stopping in Rock Springs was that I wanted to check out Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area, located half in Wyoming and half in Utah. Made up of red canyons and the Ashley National Forest, with a reservoir in the center, Flaming Gorge is, well, gorge!

Ok please forgive me for using the word “gorge” in such a cheesy manner. I just couldn’t help it.

It took about half a day to circle the Flaming Gorge reservoir in the car, stopping along the way to snap photos of the amazing views.

There were more pronghorns, especially in the Wyoming half, and if we’d had more time, it would have been great to camp out along the reservoir and have the chance to see more wildlife early in the morning.

Flaming Gorge was surprisingly uncrowded. There were no other cars on the road, and few people in sight.

Utah: More Mountains!!

Utah was by far the most beautiful state on this road trip. As soon as you cross the border, I-80 starts twisting and turning through snow-capped mountains.

I was determined to finally stretch my legs and get some exercise in Utah, which is why I chose adventure destination Park City as a stopping point. Little did I know that late May is the “muddy season” in this region with all the snow melting on the hiking trails. Whoops!

Luckily, the front desk at Park City Peaks hotel suggested Big Cottonwood Canyon for some hiking that wouldn’t be too wet. Just like the rest of Utah, it was pretty beautiful!

Not wanting to miss anything, we also made a quick stop in Salt Lake City. Seriously it was a quick stop – only about 15-20 minutes to walk around downtown and snap some photos.

Nevada: Surprisingly Awesome

I’ve never dreamed about visiting Nevada. I associate the state with brutally hot deserts and Las Vegas, a place I’m avoiding until a work conference or bachelorette inevitably forces me there.

But Nevada ended up having one of my favorite places during the I-80 road trip.

I’d originally planned to stop in Elko, the biggest town along the highway and the #1 place that pops up when you Google “places to stop along I-80 in Nevada.” But wanting to make more progress, we pushed onward until a place called Winnemucca .

Beyond it’s pretty cool name, Winnemucca was great. First of all, the surrounding area smells delicious thanks to all the sage growing.

Second, it offers some pretty sweet views if you drive off into the mountains around sunset time.

Third, Winnemucca has drinks to go, a novelty for someone born in puritanical Massachusetts!

The evening started at a Mexican restaurant across the street from the Frontier Motel – the night’s accommodations. Once I found out that the margaritas the size of my head were available  to go , it was all over. There’s something about drinks to go that makes drinking more exciting. It’s like I’m under 21 all over again!

I proceeded to have my first casino gambling experience in Winnemucca. It was mediocre and I lost $20, but it was everything I imagined a casino to be.  Check!

Winnemucca was the last pit stop on the way to California, and it was certainly one of the most memorable.

I-80 Road Trip Complete: California, I Made It!

So what did we do when we made it to California? While there will be many posts about California – seriously, this place is a weekend getaway gold mine – all you need to know is that I made a beeline for In-n-Out Burger.

Stay tuned for more California adventures to come!

Subscribe to The Weekend Jetsetter for a Free 22-Page E-Book on How I Afford to Travel

7 comments on "usa road trip: chicago to california on i-80".

great post ! I can’t wait to take a cross country trip from NC – Cali this year. I’m torn between planning out every stop and letting fate take the wheel. I know either way it will be a great adventure!

Cross country from Chicago to San Francisco in August! This thread was very helpful

Thanks Sarah!

If anyone is traveling WEDTBOUND from the Midwest to Los Angeles there is a hidden (sort of) gem in Colorado called HANGING LAKE. It is about a one-hour hike and roughly 1,000 feet in elevation oh, and you can only get to it going west but it is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen and so worth it

Great post! I actually happen to be from Morocco and I’m moving to SF for the same reason you did. This post was very helpful in planning my trip. Thanks!

Thanks for sharing your experiences and great photos. Glad you had a fun time, minus the I-80 Nebraska drive. Iowa is all green rolling hills, nothing flat about Iowa. Iowa City is a suburban college town. I suspect you drove around the city Des Moines when traveling on I-80. The navigator does that. That’s the city to stop at for a meal.

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

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Southern Pacific

Home / Route 66

Driving Historic Route 66

The romance of Route 66 continues to captivate people around the world. Starting in Chicago and ending in Los Angeles, “over two thousand miles all the way” in the words of the popular R&B anthem, this legendary old road passes through the heart of the United States on a diagonal trip that takes in some of the country’s most archetypal roadside scenes. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Related Travel Guides

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History of Route 66

Perhaps the most compelling reason to follow Route 66 is to experience the road’s ingrained timeline of contemporary America. Before it was called Route 66, and long before it was even paved in 1926, this corridor was traversed by the National Old Trails Highway, one of the country’s first transcontinental highways. For three decades before and after World War II, Route 66 earned the title “Main Street of America” because it wound through small towns across the Midwest and Southwest, lined by hundreds of cafés, motels, gas stations, and tourist attractions.

During the Great Depression, hundreds of thousands of farm families, displaced from the Dust Bowl, made their way west along Route 66 to California, following what John Steinbeck called “The Mother Road” in his vivid portrait, The Grapes of Wrath. After World War II, many thousands more expressed their upward mobility by leaving the industrial East, bound for good jobs in the suburban idyll of Southern California—again following Route 66, which came to embody the demographic shift from the Rust Belt to the Sun Belt.

Beginning in the late 1950s and continuing gradually over the next 25 years, old Route 66 was bypassed section by section as the high-speed Interstate highways were completed. Finally, after the last stretch of freeway was completed in 1984, Route 66 was officially decommissioned. The old route is now designated Historic Route 66.

Though it is no longer a main route across the country, Route 66 has retained its mystique in part due to the very same effective hype, hucksterism, and boosterism that animated it through its half-century heyday. It was a Route 66 sight, the marvelous Meramec Caverns, that gave the world the bumper sticker. And it was here on Route 66 that the great American driving vacation first flourished. Billboards and giant statues along the highway still hawk a baffling array of roadside attractions, tempting passing travelers to view giant blue whales, to see live rattlesnakes and other wild creatures on display in roadside menageries, or to stay at “Tucumcari Tonite.”

The same commercial know-how and shameless self-promotion has helped the towns along the old route stay alive. Diners and motels play up their Route 66 connections, and many bona fide Route 66 landmarks are kept in business by nostalgic travelers intent on experiencing a taste of this endlessly endangered American experience. That said, many quirky old motels and cafés hang on by a thread of hope, sit vacant, or survive in memory only—all for want of an Interstate exit. In fact, of all the roads covered in this book, Route 66 has perhaps felt the greatest impact from the modern Interstate world; for many stretches you’ll be forced to leave the old two-lane and follow the super slabs that have been built right on top of the old road.

Route 66 passes through a marvelous cross-section of American scenes, from the cornfields of Illinois all the way to the golden sands and sunshine of Los Angeles, passing by such diverse environs as the Grand Canyon, the Native American communities of the desert Southwest, the small-town Midwest heartlands of Oklahoma and the Ozarks, and the city streets of St. Louis and Chicago. Whether you are motivated by an interest in history, feel a nostalgic yearning for the “good old days” Route 66 has come to represent, or simply want to experience firsthand the amazing diversity of people and landscapes that line its path, Route 66 offers an unforgettable journey into America, then and now.

Top 10 Cities and Stops Along Route 66

For more insight into each stop along the route, our content is arranged by state. Here are some major cities and attractions along Route 66 that travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

• Chicago, Illinois – The official beginning of Route 66 (we suggest kicking off from the Art Institute of Chicago)
• St. Louis, Missouri – If you start or stop in St. Louis, swing by Ted Drewes Frozen Custard Stand
• Tulsa, Oklahoma – A bustling big city that doesn’t make a song-and-dance out of its many treasures
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – A “mighty pretty” city that has long been one of the primary stops along the Mother Road
• Amarillo, Texas – Not the biggest city along Route 66, but it is where you can order a massive 72-ounce steak
• Albuquerque, New Mexico – A great starting point for travelers mainly interested in the southwest section of Route 66
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – A cultural crossroads that has been at the center of Southwest life for centuries
• Flagstaff, Arizona – An enjoyable, energetic college town high on the Colorado Plateau
• Sedona, Arizona – A New Age draw amidst an otherworldly landscape
• Santa Monica, California – Technically more beach town than big city, Santa Monica is the western end of Route 66

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The Ultimate Route 66 Road Trip: From Illinois to California

Affectionately known as “The Mother Road”, Route 66 offers the quintessential American road trip experience. Stretching from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier, the legendary Route 66 road trip is arguably one of the most famous in the world, crossing eight states and three time zones. The trip will take you past some of the country’s most iconic roadside scenes, from neon signage and middle-of-nowhere truck stops to kitschy Americana.

With around 4,000 kilometres of road to cover, planning a Route 66 road trip requires research and travel planning. With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined , we’ve done the hard work for you and highlighted the top Route 66 sights and pit stops in each state as well as the best places to stay.

The symbolic start of a Route 66 road trip is the Buckingham Fountain in Chicago’s Millennium Park . Get orientated at the Route 66 Welcome Center at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, then head out to explore some of the best pit stops in Illinois . Most notably several historic gas stations in Dwight, Odell and Mt. Olive. Also, don’t miss the world’s largest catsup bottle in Collinsville and colourful outdoor murals in Pontiac.

Top Route 66 Sights in Illinois

• Route 66 Eastern Terminus Sign, Chicago – A historic sign marking the start of the iconic highway.
• Lauterbach Muffler Man, Springfield – A giant holding an American flag, this popular piece of kitschy Americana has remained mostly unchanged since 1962.
• Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum , Pontiac – A museum filled with Route 66 artefacts and historic memorabilia such as photos and license plates.

Where to Stay in Illinois

Chicago athletic association.

Start your road trip at the luxe Chicago Athletic Association, which is set in a prime location across from Millennium Park. It’s home to seven of the city’s best-loved dining establishments, from the seasonal menu at Cindy’s to American farm-to-table dishes in the Cherry Circle Room. Alternatively, let loose in the Game Room with cocktails and billiards, shuffleboard and bocce ball.

Elegant rooms and suites offer traces of their athletic heritage along with contemporary amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, gourmet mini bars and 24-hour in-room dining. Upgrade to one of the Holy Cow Suites for cosy fireplaces, separate seating areas and extra bedrooms.

Star Rating: 4* Price: USD 234 – USD 658 Guest Rating: 8.9 Address: 12 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

From St. Louis to Joplin, the Route 66 road trip takes you through many fascinating towns in Missouri , including quirky-named towns such as Bourbon, Cuba and Doolittle. The pedestrian and bike-friendly Chain of Rocks Bridge is a highlight in Springfield, famed for its 22-degree bend in the middle, while the Route 66 Car Museum with its classic cars is beloved with Route 66 fans.

Top Route 66 Sights in Missouri

• 66 Drive-In Theater , Carthage – On warmer months, catch a flick at this historic drive-in theatre that dates back to 1949.
• Giant Rocking Chair, Cuba – Built for the purpose of breaking the Guinness World Record for large rocking chairs, this nearly 13-metre-tall chair sits in front of Fanning Outpost General Store.
• Wagon Wheel Motel , Cafe and Gas Station, Cuba – Dating back to 1936, this mom and pop food, fuel, and lodging establishment boasts a flickering neon sign that still welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Where to Stay in Missouri

Hyatt regency st. louis at the arch.

Take a break from your road trip and unwind at Hyatt Regency St. Louis At The Arch, which overlooks the iconic Gateway Arch. In addition to easy access to downtown’s top attractions, you can enjoy locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine at RED Kitchen or sizzling steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. For craft beers and homemade BBQ, visit Brewhouse Historical Sports Bar.

Wake up to iconic Gateway Arch views from one of the stylish rooms, which feature oversized workstations and cosy lounge areas. Suites add extra living space, with the spacious Family Suite King ideal for those travelling with little ones. Go all out with a stay in the posh Executive Suite King, which offers sweeping downtown St. Louis views, a separate living room and 70 square metres of space.

Star Rating: 4* Price: USD 93 – USD 193 Guest Rating: 8.8 Address: 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

Crossing the southeastern corner of Kansas , a Route 66 road trip in The Sunflower State is only 20 kilometres, the shortest segment of any state. There are only three towns on the route: Galena, Riverton and Baxter Springs, but there are still a few noteworthy landmarks. History enthusiasts will love the exhibits at Galena Mining and Historical Museum , while the Old Riverton Store has been a road trip staple since 1925 with its classic deli sandwiches.

Top Route 66 Sights in Kansas

• Kan-O-Tex Service Station, Galena – This roadside filling station originally served Route 66 motorists in 1934, and also helped inspire the character “Tow Mater” in the movie Cars.
• Old Riverton Store, Riverton – Visit the oldest continuously operated store on Route 66, which serves as a market, deli, general store, and Route 66 souvenir shop.
• Rainbow Bridge, Baxter Springs – The only Marsh arch bridge left on Route 66.

Where to Stay in Kansas

The old riverton post b&b.

HotelsCombined visitors love the excellent value for money you get when staying at The Old Riverton Post B&B, which features bright and whimsical decor in the welcoming second-story inn. With only two rooms, you’re guaranteed personalized service, as well as a hearty continental breakfast with pastries, fruit, coffee and juice.

The pet-friendly rooms offer access to everything you need for a memorable stay, including a full kitchen, dining room, coffee nook and small sofa bed. The hosts recommend grabbing a cold beverage, propping your feet on the covered balcony and enjoying the front-row seat to small-town USA.

Star Rating: No Rating* Price: USD 69 – USD 79 Guest Rating: 9.4 Address: 7378 SE 70th St, Riverton, KS 66770

Boasting more kilometres of Route 66 than any other state, Oklahoma is the embodiment of America’s heartland. Before placing your bets on one of its classic casino hotels , make a pit stop at Clinton’s Oklahoma Route 66 Museum , which offers a look at the history of Route 66 and how it changed America. Don’t miss famous landmarks such as the world’s largest concrete totem pole in Chelsea, the giant blue whale in Catoosa and the photo-worthy Round Barn in Arcadia.

Top Route 66 Sights in Oklahoma

• Pops 66 Soda Ranch , Arcadia – See the 20 meter-tall soda bottle made of LED lights and get a sugar rush with over 700 kinds of soda.
• Will Rogers Memorial Museum , Claremore – Learn more about the life of Will Rogers, a famous performer and cowboy from Oklahoma.
• Waylan’s Ku-Ku Burger, Miami – Drive through or sit down at this quirky eatery that looks like a cuckoo clock from the outside.

Where to Stay in Oklahoma

Hyatt regency tulsa.

Located in the heart of the vibrant entertainment district, Hyatt Regency Tulsa is a top luxury hotel in downtown Tulsa. Overlooking the scenic gardens of the Williams Center Complex, the hotel offers sit down dinners at Daily Grill. Alternatively, opt for a coffee to-go at Topeca Coffee or sip wine and beer at Daily Grill Lounge.

Feel at home in the spacious rooms, all of which boast comfortable Hyatt Grand beds, work desks, HDTVs, coffee makers and mini fridges. If you need some extra space from your travelling companion, stay in one of the Luxury Suites with a separate living room.

Star Rating: 4* Price: USD 91 – USD 119 Guest Rating: 8.4 Address: 100 East 2nd Street, Tulsa, OK 74103, United States

A classic Route 66 road trip through Texas goes through the Panhandle on Interstate 40, which starts with the giant neon state of Texas sign in McLean. Take the time to browse the Route 66 artefact-filled Devil’s Rope Museum in McLean. Alternatively, visit the must-see Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo to see half-buried classic Cadillacs that form an iconic piece of artwork, which was built by artists from San Francisco in 1974.

Top Route 66 Sights in Texas

• Conoco Tower Station, Shamrock – Dating back to 1936, this Art Deco attraction operates as a museum and is particularly photogenic at night when lit up.
• Midpoint Cafe, Adrian – Serving as the mid-point between Los Angeles and Chicago, this 50s-style pit stop serves classic diner favourites.
• Sixth Street Historic District, Amarillo – The 13 blocks include art galleries, antique and collectable stores, restaurants, and bars in historic buildings.

Where to Stay in Texas

Courtyard by marriott amarillo downtown.

Courtyard by Marriott Amarillo Downtown is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of driving. Catch up on the latest shows on your flat-screen TV, do some travel planning with the free Wi-Fi or sink into the plush pillow top mattress after a long day. Large windows offer spectacular views of downtown, while upgraded Suites add sitting areas and sofa beds.

The on-site restaurant The Bistro serves breakfast favourites and a variety of dinner choices, as well as beer and wine in the evening. Don’t forget a Starbucks coffee for a caffeine boost to start your day. Additionally, there’s a 24-hour market available with a tasty selection of on-the-go snacks and beverages.

Star Rating: 3* Price: USD 95 – USD 206 Guest Rating: 8.7 Address: 724 South Polk Street, Amarillo, TX 79101, United States

If you started your Route 66 road trip in Chicago, once you drive into New Mexico you’re more than halfway to the end and officially in the American Southwest. Start snapping photos of the vintage neon signs and retro motels in Tucumcari, then keep your eyes peeled for the murals paying tribute to the town’s storied history as a famous pit stop destination. To see classic cars and vintage gas pumps, add the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa to your itinerary.

Top Route 66 Sights in New Mexico

• San Miguel Mission, Santa Fe – Built in 1625, it is the oldest church in the United States.
• San Jose Mission Church, Laguna – A traditional pueblo building made of adobe that was built in 1701 and serves as a religious centre.
• Blue Swallow Motel, Tucumcari – Built just before the beginning of World War II, this iconic vintage 1940s motel has a postcard-perfect neon sign.

Where to Stay in New Mexico

Hotel albuquerque at old town – heritage hotels and resorts.

Hotel Albuquerque At Old Town – Heritage Hotels and Resorts is conveniently placed in the heart of the Old Town, offering luxe perks such as multiple restaurants and bars and an outdoor swimming pool. Nightlife is highlighted by the hotel’s intimate flamenco theatre and lively QBar Lounge.

Traditional Guest Rooms boast Keurig brewers, refrigerators and expansive views of the Albuquerque Sandia Mountains, while some Junior Suites add private balconies with downtown Albuquerque and Old Town views and separate sitting areas. Looking for romance? The opulent Presidential Suite has over 110 square metres of living space.

Star Rating: 3* Price: USD 135 – USD 204 Guest Rating: 8.7 Address: 800 Rio Grande Blvd Nw, Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

Arizona is full of classic Route 66 road trip attractions, including retro motels and gas stations, as well as iconic American destinations such as the Grand Canyon . Enjoy retro-chic photo-ops in Williams, including the bright red car on the roof of Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe, then browse the vintage cafes and stores in the photogenic Seligman. The Arizona Route 66 Museum in Kingman is an essential Route 66 stop, as well as the burro-filled streets of Oatman.

Top Route 66 Sights in Arizona

• Hackberry General Store, Hackberry – A short drive up from Kingman, this unique store is full of Route 66 memorabilia and kitschy souvenirs.
• Meteor Crater Natural Landmark – Visit the site where a meteor crashed into the ground around 50,000 years ago.
• Petrified Forest National Park , Holbrook – Marvel at the unique stone formations, petrified trees and natural multi-coloured badlands.

Where to Stay in Arizona

Little america hotel flagstaff.

A perfect home base if you want to explore the Grand Canyon , Little America Hotel Flagstaff has a host of amenities and services for weary travellers. In addition to a Travel Center with a 24-hour convenience store, it highlights quintessential Arizona flavours in its highly-rated Silver Pine Restaurant & Bar. It’s inviting outdoor pool is a welcome respite after a day of travelling in the car.

Sitting among some of America’s most beautiful natural scenery, stylish rooms feature sitting areas, flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffee makers and high-speed Wi-Fi. Families and groups can upgrade to a Two Queen with Sofa, while Apartment Suites boast a full kitchen and spacious living room. Upgraded suites add romantic marble fireplaces.

Star Rating: 3.5* Price: USD 129 – USD 699 Guest Rating: 9 Address: 2515 East Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, Arizona, United States

California is the last stretch on a Route 66 road trip, home to big-city Los Angeles and the sandy beaches lining the Pacific Ocean. A sign at the end of the Santa Monica Pier marks the end of the legendary highway, but before that, you can explore quirky California landmarks. See a McDonald’s made from old railroad cars or browse artefacts in Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, then admire tree-shaped glass sculptures in Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch in Helendale.

Top Route 66 Sights in California

• Broadway Theater and Commercial District, Los Angeles – Admire the building facades in this historic theatre district — the largest of its kind in the United States.
• Wigwam Motel , San Bernardino – This kitschy lodging and historic landmark dating from 1949 features towering tepees.
• Mojave National Reserve , Kelso – A 64,000-hectare desert park ideal for hiking and spotting local wildlife.

Where to Stay in California

Loews santa monica beach hotel.

One of Santa Monica’s luxury beachfront hotels , Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is an ideal place to wrap up your Route 66 road trip. In addition to an ocean-view pool and pampering Ocean Spa, you can enjoy locally-caught seafood paired with ocean views at Ocean & Vine Restaurant. Alternatively, opt for campfire-inspired oceanfront fire pits at Blue Streak or rent a bike and cruise the area on two wheels.

The rooms at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel feature contemporary furnishings and ocean views, including the enticing Oceanfront Fire Pit Suite with a furnished patio and fire pit. The custom-designed suites are even more luxurious, from the Poolside Cabana Room and Boho Terrace Luxury Suite to the Santa Monica Luxury Suite.

Star Rating: 4* Price: USD 425 – USD 4,000 Guest Rating: 8.3 Address: 1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Hotel Location

Explore the heart of america on a classic route 66 road trip.

Whether you’re with the family, on a couple’s trip or travelling solo, there’s no better way to see some of America’s greatest landscapes than on a Route 66 road trip. Offering a trip-of-a-lifetime, Route 66 boasts iconic U.S. landmarks, national parks and historic sites along the much-loved byway. Pack your bags and enjoy the view!

What is your favourite Route 66 road trip destination? Let us know in the comments below.

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The Open Road Travel

• Sep 21, 2021

Road Trip From Chicago To Los Angeles (Drive Route 66)

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles will see you drive the length of the historic Route 66 in its entirety. This legendary road will take you between two of the largest, most famous cities in America, past some of its most famous attractions.

Along the way, you'll travel through a whopping 7 states. Beginning in Illinois, you will pass through Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, before arriving at your destination in California.

With so much to see and do along the way, you aren’t going to want to miss anything on this amazing journey. So, if you are planning to drive Route 66 on a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles, I highly recommend reading on.

A Road Trip From Chicago To Los Angeles: How Far Is It & How Long Will It Take To Get There?

A road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles takes you along the length of the historic Route 66. This is definitely not a journey for the faint of heart, as you will be travelling over 2,000 miles, which will take upwards of 30 hours.

While the original Route 66 is no longer drivable in its entirety, you can still follow roughly the same route, using a collection of newer roads interspersed with parts of the historic route itself.

However, it is important to note that the roads you choose can dramatically affect the time the journey takes. That’s why I am going to provide two routes; a straightforward one, and one that follows as much of the original route as possible.

No matter which route you take, the start point for our journey is the Historic Route 66 Begin Sign, located opposite the Art Institute Of Chicago.

The Simple Route

Head south on South Michigan Avenue and turn right onto East Ida B. Wells Drive. Follow it onto the Chicago – Kansas City Expressway and immediately exit to go south on I-90.

Take exit 53 in the south of the city to join I-55, going southwest.

You’ll follow this for 300 miles to St Louis, Missouri, where you’ll take exit 40B W to go west on I-44. You’ll remain on this road until you reach Oklahoma City, some 500 miles away.

Upon reaching the city, take exit 120A to join the I-40. You’ll then follow this west for most of the 1,200 miles to where it terminates in Barstow, California.

With the bulk of the journey behind us, begin heading south on I-15 to exit 115A, where you’ll head west on Route 210. Pick up I-605 where it begins and follow it south to exit 22.

From here you’ll join the I-10 going west and follow it the final 30 miles, to our destination at the Route 66 End Of The Trail sign on Santa Monica Pier.

Drive Route 66

Begin by heading west on East Adams Street and continue following it to Heritage Green Park, where you turn left onto South Desplaines Street.

Take a right onto West Van Buren Street, then the first right onto South Halsted Street, before turning left onto West Adams Street.

Turn left onto West Ogden Avenue and follow it for 8.5 miles, where you’ll join Illinois Route 43 going south. Just a short while later, exit onto Joliet Road and continue following it when it becomes 55th Street. Turn left onto East Avenue, then right to re-join Joliet Road.

Large sections of the road will now simply be labelled Historic US-66, which you’ll follow until just before the Dupage River. As the road becomes W Main Street, turn left to stay on Historic Route 66.

Exit when you reach Gardner and turn left onto County Road 7000 S, before immediately turning right and then right again to remain on Historic US-66. Eventually you will reach a sign in the town of Towanda where Historic US-66 and Old US Route 66 split.

Turn right to stay on Historic US-66 then left on the freeway to follow it south. Take the first exit, just before the Bloomington Water Tower, then turn left to stay on Historic U.S. 66.

Turn right just before the S Veterans Pkwy freeway onramp, then left immediately after you pass over the top of it.

When you reach the town of McLean you will briefly turn right onto Dixie Rd, before almost immediately turning left back onto Route 66. When you reach the Lincoln Pkwy onramp take a left to stay on Route 66, then veer left again when you reach the crossroads.

Take a right onto Illinois Route 123 in Williamsville then join I-55 going south. Follow this until you reach St. Louis, where you will use exit 40A. Turn right then right again to get back onto Route 66.

Turn right onto Chouteau Avenue then left onto Tucker Boulevard. At the intersection, bear right onto Chippewa Street. After 12.5 miles, you’ll reach a flyover, where you head north on US-61 until you reach Missouri Route 100.

Follow this until it passes over the I-44, just before the town of Villa Ridge. When it veers right, continue straight to remain on Route 66. The road will cross back and forth across the I-44, running mostly parallel until you eventually merge with US-63 in the town of Rolla.

Turn right onto Kingshighway and then merge with I-44. Once you reach the town of Vinita in Oklahoma, turn right onto US-60. From here, Route 66 will largely be signposted, using parts of I-35 and I-44 along the way.

You will eventually merge with the I-40 at exit 108. From here, the route will be almost identical to above, following the I-40 most of the way. The only exceptions are a few detours through some of the most historic Route 66 towns. These are:

· Exit 101 to 84

· Exit 80 to 71

· Exit 41 to 32, through Elk City

· Exit 25 to 176, through Sayre, Hext, Erick, and Texola

· Exit 164 To 161, through Shamrock

· Exit 157 to 152

· Exit 114 to 110 through Groom

· Exit 98 to 89

· Exit 85 to 62A, through Amarillo.

· Exit 37 to 35, through Vega

· Exit 23 to 22, through Adrian

· Exit 0 to 329, through Glenrio, San Jon, and Tucumcari

· Exit 277 to 273, through Santa Rosa

· Exit 197 to 149, through Moriarty, Edgewood, Tijeras, Carnuel, and Albuquerque

· Exit 114 to 47, through Laguna, San Fidel, Grants, Milan, and Prewitt

· Exit 36 to 15, through Gallup

· Exit 204 to 191, through Flagstaff

· Exit 165 to 151, through Williams

· Exit 139 to 1, through more than a dozen towns, including Seligman and Kingman

Best Time For A Road Trip From Chicago To Los Angeles

While there is nothing stopping you from driving Route 66 at any time, the best time for a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles is between early May and late September.

This is a timeframe where the weather is pleasant the whole way along the route, and you can ensure that the vast majority of attractions will be open.

August is a particularly good choice, as there are a number of events taking place along Route 66 that can add even more value to your trip.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Chicago To Los Angeles

The whole point of a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles along Route 66 is to take the opportunity to stop and see the sights along the way.

On a journey like this there is simply far too much along the route to list everything, especially as many of the attractions are niche options that will only appeal to a certain audience.

With that in mind, I have compiled the following list of must-see attractions. These are the destinations that have the most to offer and are sure to entertain the vast majority of travellers.

Joliet, Illinois

The 3rd largest city in Illinois and the first major location along Route 66, it has plenty of attractions related to the history of the historic route.

The Route 66 Visitors Centre is a great place to learn about the journey you are embarking on, while the Route 66 Raceway and Chicagoland Speedway both embrace the auto industry that put the city on the map.

Other attractions include the Joliet Area Historical Museum, the historical Joliet Correctional Center, a pair of casinos, and the Rialto Square Theatre, a favourite destination of infamous Illinois gangster Al Capone.

Springfield, Illinois

The largest city in Illinois outside the Chicago Metropolitan Area, Springfield is best known for being the residence of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln between 1837 and 1861. He lived in the city working as a lawyer right up until he was elected to the White House.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library And Museum, Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices State Historic Site, and the Lincoln Tomb are all located in the city.

This makes it a great stop for anyone interested in one of the nation’s most famous politicians.

Stanton, Missouri

A small town in eastern Missouri, Stanton is surrounded by attractions like the Meramec Caverns, Meramec River, Riverside Wildlife Center, and Wild Animal Adventure. This makes it a great place to get out and stretch your legs for anyone interested in nature or wildlife.

In the town itself, you also have a popular attraction that is the Jesse James Wax Museum, which teaches about the life of the region’s infamous outlaw through wax works and videos.

Springfield, Missouri

Known as the Birthplace Of Route 66, there are plenty of historic locations and establishments to revel in during your journey.

For those travelling in August, the crown jewel of the city is the Route 66 Festival, which is held along the route itself, as well as in Central Square.

Parades featuring vintage cars and performers travel along Route 66, while vendors in the square sell food and drink, as well as souvenirs and literature relating to the road, all while live performances take place around the park.

Joplin, Missouri

Joplin has an automotive history relating to something other than Route 66, as it was one of the hideouts of the notorious Bonnie & Clyde during their rampage. After robbing numerous businesses, a police shootout saw them flee, leaving behind many of their most personal possessions.

The Joplin Museum Complex features exhibits including some of the couple’s personal belongings, as well as the original copies of some of their most iconic photos.

As for its history with Route 66, you also have the Route 66 Mural Park. Here you will find a selection of beautiful murals dedicated to the legendary road.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The 2nd largest city in Oklahoma, Tulsa is settled on lands considered Indian Territory. With numerous museums, as well as cultural and historical archives, it is one of the best places to come to learn more about the history of this part of the country.

The city itself features a fabulous collection of parks, works of art, and performance venues, as well as the sort of nightlife and amenities you would associate with a larger city.

You will also find the Golden Driller Statue, as well as the Meadow Gold sign, one of the most iconic landmarks along Route 66.

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

Located in the small town of Clinton, the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum contains signs, photos, memorabilia, and a replica diner, dedicated to the history, myths, and music of Route 66.

National Route 66 And Transportation Museum

The National Route 66 And Transportation Museum is a large complex found in Elk City, Oklahoma. More than just a museum dedicated to Route 66, it also features a recreation of a town as it would have looked from when the area was first settled up to the completion of the road.

With locations like an undertaker, opera house, school, post office, diner, law office, general store, furniture store, black smith, and train station, it is a fabulous place to take a journey back into the past.

Musical Highway, America The Beautiful

A unique attraction made from rumble strips along the highway. Make sure to maintain a speed between 40 to 45 miles per hour and the vibrations of the car will play America The Beautiful as you drive.

El Malpais National Monument

A rugged volcanic landscape, it is a popular hiking and caving destination, which offers scenery unlike anything else you are likely to find in the region.

Gallup, New Mexico

Known as the “Native American Capital Of The World”, Gallup gained fame in the 1930’s as a getaway for stars trying to escape the paparazzi in Los Angeles or Las Vegas.

Famous names like John Wayne, Catherine Hepburn, the Rat Pack, and even former U.S. President Ronald Regan took refuge here. With its historic hotels, markets, and murals, it is a fabulous destination to soak up history and culture across the board.

Petrified Forest National Park

Covering over 220,000 acres, Petrified Forest National Park is the only National Park located directly along Route 66. It is a wonderful attraction filled with archaeological sites and fossils, as well as colourful painted deserts and petrified wood.

The park is also home to numerous species of animals, such as coyote, deer, pronghorn, and more than 200 species of birds, including roadrunners.

Winslow, Arizona

Known for its murals, Winslow is a historic town that has been restored with bars and stores designed to educate and entertain those driving, or interested in, Route 66.

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is a massive meteor impact site, giving you the opportunity to see the size of a crater first-hand.

A theatre and interpretive centre help to teach you about the crater and the effect of meteors, while a gift shop and concessions will take care of your dining and keepsake needs.

Grand Canyon National Park

One of the most visited natural attractions on Earth, Grand Canyon National Park is home to one of its largest canyons. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, it runs for 277 miles, with widths between 4 and 18 miles and a depth of over a mile in places.

Continuously home to Native American’s, it is considered a holy place for numerous tribes.

With some of the most breathtaking views you will ever experience, as well as features like historic dwellings, waterfalls, historic trails, and an abundance of wildlife, it is a can’t miss destination for anyone who has never visited before.

Williams, Arizona

One of the most famous towns along Route 66, Williams is filled with Americana style shops and restaurants, themed and dating back to the early 1900’s.

Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum contains a museum and a selection of vintage vehicles, while the Route 66 Zipline will give thrill-seekers the chance to get their blood pumping.

You also have Bearizona Wildlife Park, where you have the chance to see bears, bison, mountain goats, and birds of prey, up close and personal.

Seligman, Arizona

The Seligman Commercial Historic District was designated a historic highway by Arizona in 1978 and added to the National Register Of Historic Places in 2005. Another town claiming to be the birthplace of Route 66, businesses and buildings here date back as early as 1903.

Among them are a gas station, general store, post office, pool hall, and theatre. With some still in operation, others preserved as museums, and themed bars, shops, and restaurants dotted throughout, it is a wonderful little stop offering both history and entertainment.

Kingman, Arizona

The last of the trio of historic towns in this part of Arizona, Kingman features the Mohave Museum Of History And Arts, the Kingman Railroad Museum, the Arizona Route 66 Museum, and a locomotive park with a 1920’s steam engine.

Havasu National Wildlife Refuge

Havasu National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that is an important wetland habitat for breeding, migrating, and nesting birds.

Nature lovers and bird watchers can take the opportunity to spot some rare and interesting species, such as peregrine falcons and roadrunners.

Mojave National Preserve

The Mojave National Preserve is a 1.6-million-acre dessert wilderness, popular for hiking, horse riding, and four-wheel driving. It features historical markers and the Kelso Ghost Town, which has a historic rail depot you can explore.

Calico Ghost Town

Located in the hills northeast of Los Angeles, Calico is an abandoned silver mining town that has been maintained to look how it historically would have. It is easily visible from the highway, due to its name being marked out in white rocks on the side of the hill.

Among the top attractions are a train ride down into the mine, faux stores showing how traditional goods were made, and a saloon serving old-fashioned sarsaparilla.

Barstow, California

A famous railroad depot, Barstow is home to the Barstow Route 66 Mother Road Museum. The town is a great place to explore the history of the railroad, while the museum features artwork, historic vehicles, photographs, and petrolania dedicated to Route 66.

Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From Chicago To Los Angeles

There’s no two ways about it, a road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles is a trip of such magnitude that you are going to need to make a number of overnight stops along the way.

While there are countless options available, I am going to suggest one from each state you travel through, so you can fully experience the range of cultures there is to encounter on your journey.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is the 2nd most populous city in the state of Missouri, lying on the banks of the Mississippi River.

Known historically as the “Gateway To The West”, due to being the last major city before the frontier in the old west, its most famous attraction is the Gateway Arch. Standing 630 feet high, the monument is a stunning piece of architecture, located right beside the river.

Designated a National Park, it is the tallest man-made monument in the world, paying homage to the city’s importance during the westward expansion of the United States during the 1800’s.

St. Louis is equally as historic when it comes to the music industry as well, specifically the blues genre. One of the most important musical cities in the world, you have the opportunity to see iconic locations like Gaslight Square, where the genre exploded in the 50’s and 60’s.

Countless bars litter the city, giving you the chance to enjoy an evening out, listening to the sort of sounds that made it famous.

You even have iconic venues such as Blueberry Hill to visit, as well as the chance to see the second oldest symphony orchestra in America, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

For those not as interested in history or music, there are numerous other attractions to enjoy in St. Louis, such as museums, zoos, and botanical gardens.

Best Hotel To Stay At In St. Louis – Hyatt Regency St. Louis At The Arch

Located immediately opposite Gateway Arch National Park, the Hyatt Regency St. Louis At The Arch is a stunning, 4-star hotel. This wonderful location gives you the ability to wake up each morning to views of the city’s most famous attraction.

The rooms are all modern and stylishly decorated, providing you a high-level of relaxation throughout your stay. With a 24-hour gym and a fabulous restaurant on site, it is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The capital and largest city in the state of Oklahoma, OKC was founded during the Oklahoma Land Rush of 1889. A city that thrives on business and industry, it is also a destination that is known for its abundance of cultural and historic establishments.

Museums such as the National Cowboy And Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Museum Of Art, the Oklahoma Science Museum, and the Oklahoma History Center are designed to help visitors learn and understand more about the history of the city.

Meanwhile, its extensive collection of parks and theatres give you places to relax and unwind, while soaking in the culture of the region.

Combined with a thriving downtown area full of bars and restaurants, Oklahoma City is a perfect place to stop for a well-rounded break from the road.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Oklahoma City – The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

Located at the heart of Downtown Oklahoma City, The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City is a stunning hotel, located in a beautiful, historic building. From the exteriors to the lobby and corridors, this is a location that will make you feel like royalty from a bygone era.

You can make the most of this in places like the hotel’s Park Avenue Grill Restaurant, or its Red Piano Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and live music. There is even a swimming pool for guests who want to stay a little more active.

In contrast, the rooms are all modern, yet maintain a similar level of style. Sleek, comfortable furnishings are complimented by more high-tech amenities like flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and serenity beds.

With the Bricktown Entertainment District, the State Capitol Building, and the Oklahoma City National Bombing Memorial within minutes of the front doors, you will have plenty to keep you busy both in and around this amazing property.

Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo is a beautiful city that is the largest and most populous in northwest Texas. Being from the more rural part of the state, it features a lot more of the stereotypes people associate with Texas than you will find in the bigger cities.

All the 10-gallon hats, great steaks, cowboy boots, and ranchers you could ever hope to see turn Amarillo into the ideal place for those wanting to experience the “real” side of Texas.

As a result, it has also been used to film numerous westerns over the years, so movie buffs may be able to spot some familiar locations. While the city itself has lots to offer, there is plenty going on in the surrounding area as well.

The Caprock Canyons State Park And Trailway, houses the official Texan bison herd, where you can enjoy its iconic wildlife.

The Alibates Flint Quarry National Monument was where ancient native settlers constructed tools and weapons, allowing you a glimpse into the region’s history.

There is even Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second largest canyon system in the United States, for those who love nothing more than taking in the beauty of the country.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Amarillo – Route 66 Inn

Located just outside the Route 66 historic district, on the legendary road itself, the Route 66 Inn is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the spirit of the trip.

A modest accommodation, it is the surroundings, such as the nearby Amarillo Museum Of Art, as well as the style that sell this property.

That said, home comforts and appliances like a microwave, refrigerator, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and free parking help make it a welcome pit stop on an incredible journey.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

The largest, most populous city in New Mexico, Albuquerque is a beautiful place, filled with bars and restaurants boasting a vibrant Mexican culture.

The must-see locations in the city include Historic sites like the San Felipe De Neri Church and the stunning views from the Sandia Peak tramway, the longest aerial tram in the Americas, in the nearby Cibola National Forest.

Combined with racetracks and casinos, it is a city with a wide range of options to keep everyone happy during their visit. Depending on what time of year you choose to visit, Albuquerque also hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year.

Occasions like the International Balloon Fiesta, Gathering Of Nations, and the New Mexico State Fair give you plenty of chances to soak up the culture of the city.

In the surrounding area, the historic Bandelier National Monument, the beautiful Cibola National Forest, and the incredible Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge provide a range of attractions to amaze people of all tastes and interests.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Albuquerque – Hotel Chaco

Set in the Old Town section of Albuquerque, Hotel Chaco is situated in a historic building, which immerses you in your iconic surroundings. With attractions aplenty within walking distance of the property, it is truly the height of culture and convenience.

Amenities like a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and outdoor swimming pool provide all the convenience you would expect from a 4-star hotel.

Meanwhile, the rooms are all spacious and beautifully furnished, ensuring a comfortable visit, no matter how long you choose to stay.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is an often-overlooked city, yet it is a place that may have the best collection of natural wonders you will find anywhere in America. In fact, one of its nicknames is "the city of seven wonders”, due to just how much there is to do and see in the area.

Among them are the towering Humphrey’s Peak, the stunning Slide Rock State Park and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, the historic Wupatki National Monument and Walnut Canyon National Monument, and the crystal waters of Mormon Lake.

The 7th wonder is one that has earned the city another nickname, “the city in the pines”, that being Coconino National Forest. At nearly 2 million acres, it is the largest Ponderosa pine forest in North America.

Throughout it you will find miles of hiking trails, weaving through incredible scenery that is alive with wildlife. On top of all this, you even have the Grand Canyon located less than an hour to the north.

This all makes Flagstaff an incredible choice for anyone who loves going on an adventure.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Flagstaff – Little America Hotel Flagstaff

The Little America Hotel Flagstaff is the ideal place to stay during your trip to Flagstaff. A rustic hotel, designed like a traditional log cabin and lodge, located right on the edge of Coconino National Forest, it perfectly represents the natural beauty of this incredible location.

Despite its more traditional design, this isn’t by any means a “simple” property though. Beautiful furnishings and modern-day luxuries like Wi-Fi and a swimming pool provide all the exclusivity you would find at any top resort.

This all combines to make the Little America Hotel the perfect mix of style, quality, and location, to perfectly compliment your trip and allow you to make the most of this beautiful and historic city.

A road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles along Route 66 is a fabulous endeavour. You travel between two amazing cities, along a route that is filled with history and stunning locations.

While the shorter route will be appealing to some, I’d highly recommend taking the extra time to use the more scenic route if you can.

This article should have given you everything you need to plan your perfect trip along Route 66, making stops at all the iconic locations you will have heard of. So, all that’s left is to start making plans and getting things booked, so you can hit the road as soon as possible.

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All I have to do is drive and enjoy the trip you have done an excellent job of

identifying sites to visit and the best time of the year to visit.

Thank you can’t wait to see RT66

Thank you for the kind words, we hope you have a fantastic trip. Please feel free to tag our Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/theopenroadtravel/ , in any photos you share as we'd love to see how your adventure goes.

Safe Travels

Steve & Louise

Chicago to California – A Scenic American Road Trip on Route 66

Discover attractions across eight states and three time zones with an unforgettable trip down the “The Mother Road”

Plan a road trip from Chicago to California for the adventure of a lifetime on the legendary Route 66. Sure, it’s a long journey—but for anyone interested in classic Americana history, this 2,448- mile trek through the middle of the country is full of world-famous sites and iconic, “only in America,” attractions.

"Before you get your motor running and head out on the highway, you’ll need a plan—this 40+ hour drive has more incredible stops than you could possibly fit into a single trip."

While there are certainly faster and more convenient ways to travel from the Midwest to the West Coast, none are quite as fascinating as this leisurely Chicago to California drive past old trading posts, classic diners, sparkling neon signs and other memorable sights.

Tips for traveling on Route 66

  A truly successful road trip means more than just getting there and back again, and a journey down the Mother Road is no exception.

• The drive takes about 40 hours . Plan to be on the road for at least five days—or longer—depending on how many stops and side trips you make. Route 66 rolls through small towns (with plenty of stop lights) along the way, so you won’t be driving as fast as you would on an interstate highway.
• Be sure you have a good overview map . Few modern maps even show the historic highway anymore (it was first commissioned back in 1926), but several are available online. Once you're out on the open road, you'll see the route and its historical markers along the way.
• Make lodging reservations in advance . By today's standards, this is the road less-traveled—meaning there are fewer nearby hotels and more “no vacancy” signs. Book a Choice hotel in advance to be sure you have a place to stretch out and rest before heading back on the road.
• Think about what you want to see along the way . Some websites offer turn-by-turn Route 66 road trip planners, showing an abundance of attractions, restaurants, souvenir shops and must-see museums. Make a list of where you want to stop before you hit the road, but always leave a little time for an unexpected side trip or two.
• Consider the side trips . While there is plenty to see along Route 66, a detour is sure to delight your carload. Country-music boomtown Branson, MO, is just 50 miles south of Springfield. The Grand Canyon is about 90 minutes off the highway in northern Arizona, and the spectacular Hoover Dam is less than 100 miles northwest of Route 66 on the Arizona-Nevada Border—just to name a few.

First Leg: Chicago, IL to St. Louis, MO – 298 mi.

  The Gateway Arch is hard to miss. Dominating the St. Louis skyline, this majestic monument is a must-visit on your Route 66 adventure.

Start your epic Route 66 road trip in the iconic Windy City. There’s so much to do and see in Chicago that you might get distracted. But since time is limited, set your sights on enjoying the open spaces and city views you’ll find in Millennium Park. Make your next stop in Springfield, IL—the Land of Lincoln and the Birthplace of Route 66 . Here you can snap a photo of the former president’s 19 th century home , visit his 117-foot tomb , and see the beautiful Illinois State Capitol. Finish out the first leg of the journey in St. Louis, MO. Stand in awe of the 630-foot Gateway Arch , the tallest monument in the Western Hemisphere, built to celebrate the westward expansion of the U.S.

Second Leg: St. Louis, MO to Amarillo, TX – 780 mi.

  One of the most iconic Route 66 stops, the buried cars at Cadillac Ranch let you leave your mark on a piece of artistic history in the middle of the Texas panhandle.

You’ll want to start early, because the next stretch of highway will be your longest stint on the road. From St. Louis, you’ll travel southwest before hitting Sullivan, where an underground adventure awaits just outside town. Visit the Meramec Caverns , a series of caves where outlaw Jesse James once hid out with his gang. Just be sure to bring a jacket – the caverns are a chilly 58 degrees. Your next stop is in Claremore, OK, and the Will Rogers Memorial Museum . Stretch your legs in the serene countryside where the cowboy, comedian, commentator and “Oklahoma’s Favorite Son” called home before hopping back in your car to visit the Texas panhandle. While the song “Amarillo by Morning” might be playing in your head, you’re more likely to be here by sundown (depending on whether you decide to do this leg in one sitting). If you have time, make sure to stop by Cadillac Ranch, created in 1974 by a San Francisco art group. Bring a can of spray paint to add your own work to these 10 half-buried Caddies—or just snap a photo to add to your Route 66 vacation collage .

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Renting a car for your next adventure? Choice Privileges ® members can get up to 25% off base rates on qualifying Avis ® and Budget ® rentals. Plus, you can earn 1,000 points for renting a car! Simply provide your Choice Privileges number when you book or at the counter at the time of rental.

Third Leg: Amarillo, TX to Winslow, AZ – 588 mi.

  A stop in downtown Winslow offers a terrific vacation photo op on one of the most famous corners in the western United States.

As you head further west, the states get bigger and the wide-open spaces seem like they stretch on forever. This third leg of your journey will take you through an area of the country that feels like it’s still part of the Old West. But once you hit Albuquerque, you’ll discover a quirky big city with plenty to see and do. Here, you can drive through a slice of classic Route 66 Americana with a cruise down Central Avenue—18 miles of vintage neon signs, motels and diners. Back on the road, you’ll find plenty of Route 66 inspired stops (and even a few ghost towns) in Arizona. You’ll want to take a short detour to Meteor Crater & Barringer Space Museum just 18 miles outside Winslow, AZ. A football-sized asteroid crashed here some 50,000 years ago and left a crater nearly a mile wide for you to explore. Finally, end your day in the town where The Eagles recorded “Take it Easy” in 1977; and be sure to get a pic of you “standin’ on the corner in Winslow, Arizona” while you’re here.

Fourth Leg: Winslow, AZ to Santa Monica, CA – 589 mi.

  You’ve made it to the end of the Mother Road! Now you can relax with a dip in the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and soak up some sun on popular Santa Monica Beach.

The final stretch of your Route 66 journey takes you from the high deserts of Arizona into sunny southern California. Your first stop is at the London Bridge (yes, that London Bridge) in Lake Havasu, AZ. Once spanning the River Thames in London from the 1830s through the 1960s, the bridge was sold for $2.4 million, disassembled, and then reassembled in Lake Havasu, of all places—and now offers the perfect photo-op . Next, cross the boarder into the Golden State and plan a visit to the famous Calico Ghost Town in Yermo, CA, near the Mohave Desert. This Old West mining town from the late 1800s once produced more than $20 million in silver over a 12-year span. Now, it offers ghost tours along Main Street, a self-guided tour into the depths of Maggie Mine, and a railroad tour around town. Finally, you’ll end this incredible journey where the road meets the sea in Santa Monica. Go for a swim or a jog at Santa Monica Beach, which has recently reopened for recreational use.

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Driving Route 66 – The Complete Road Trip From Chicago To LA

Route 66 must be one of the world’s most iconic roads and driving the full 2448 miles from Chicago to LA is the classic ‘must-do’ road trip. Over June and July, we spent three and a half weeks driving the ‘Mother Road’ through 8 states with a few little side trips on the way.

We used Jerry McClanahan’s EZ66 Guide for Travellers to plan our route and tried to stick to the original alignment as far as possible. We actually met Jerry on the route at his studio in Chandler, Oklahoma. You read more about our planning here – Route 66 Pre Trip Planning

So let’s get started as we vlog away along Route 66 and discover this amazing road for ourselves.

1. The Start – Chicago To Springfield, Illinois

Chicago, the start of Route 66. From Chicago we travel to Joliet and the old prison as seen in the ‘Blues Brothers’ . Then it’s on to the Gemini Giant Wilmington, Odell and lunch in Pontiac.

In the afternoon, we get to Atlanta, home of the Paul Bunyan ‘muffler man’ before passing through Lincoln and the first night’s stop in the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois.

2. Springfield To Cuba, Missouri

There’s nothing better than a Cozy Dog to start your day’s drive on Route 66.

From Springfield we head to Missouri, the second state on the route. On the way we stop at Henry’s Rabbit Ranch and the old Chain of Rocks Bridge which, unfortunately was inaccessible due to flooding along the Mississippi. We end the day in Cuba, MO, famous for its murals.

3. Cuba And A Side Trip To Branson

We take a little diversion off Route 66 on a little side trip to Branson, MO.

From Cuba we visit the Giant Rocking Chair in Fanning before crossing the Devil’s Elbow Bridge.

If you want a childish snigger you have to stop at Uranus. Bizarrely, we end the day next to the Titanic, only in Branson!

4. Branson To Carthage. Missouri

It’s back on Route 66. The first stop of the day is the classic Gay Parita gas station at Paris Junction before heading to Carthage, Missouri.

If you thought Branson was a bit strange, wait until you see the Precious Moments Chapel. We end the day at another Route 66 classic, Boots Court Motel staying in Clark Gable room, he stayed here in the 1940’s

5. Carthage To Tulsa, Oklahoma

Three states in a day. After breakfast in Carthage town centre we leave Missouri and enter Kansas. Only 13 miles of Route 66 passes through Kansas.

Then it’s Oklahoma and the Blue Whale of Catoosa. The stop for the night is Tulsa, Oklahoma. We found Tulsa to be a very interesting city with some great art-deco architecture. We wished we had more time there.

6. Tulsa To Elk City, Oklahoma

Another day in Oklahoma, we stop off in Chandler to meet Jerry McClanahan, the author of the EZ66 GUIDE.

Mel tries the famous Chicken Fried Steak (no chicken involved!) We finally get to Elk City near the Texas border former home to song writer Jimmy Webb. His classics include “By the Time I Get to Phoenix”, “Wichita Lineman” and “Galveston”.

7. Texas To Tucumcari, New Mexico

A long day’s drive from Oklahoma, across Texas and into New Mexico.

In Texas we stop at the famous Cadillac Ranch although it wasn’t really our favourite although the ugly crust pies at the Midpoint Cafe definitely were.

We end the day at the classic Motel Safari in Tucumcari, New Mexico.

8. Tucumcari To Santa Fe

From Tucumcari we take the Santa Fe Loop. This was the original alignment of Route 66 between 1926 and 1937 from Santa Rosa to Albuquerque.

Santa Fe is the state capital of New Mexico and with its low rise Adobe architecture it is a unique looking city, very different from what we’ve encountered so far. We are glad we spent an extra night in Santa Fe and recommend doing the same.

9, New Mexico To Winslow, Arizona

After a couple of days in Santa Fe we head to Arizona but not before visiting the famous El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, NM. This is where a number of Hollywood film stars stayed while making Westerns.

Our first stop in Arizona was the beautiful Painted Desert and Petrified Forest National Park. We end the day at one the best hotels on Route 66, La Posada in Winslow, AZ.

1 0. Arizona And A Side Trip To Sedona

After ‘Standin on the corner in Winslow, Arizona’ we drive west past the meteor crater and the run down old Route 66 gas stations of Two Guns and Twin Arrows.

After the desert, the landscape changes near Flagstaff with its mountains and ponderosa pine forests. Before continuing west we take a little diversion to the picturesque, red rock town of Sedona.

11. Williams And The Grand Canyon

On to the old town of Williams, getting there takes you on a section of the old unpaved part of Route 66.

Williams is described as the gateway to the Grand Canyon and it is only a 50-minute drive to the south rim of the Grand Canyon.

If you want to experience the Grand Canyon without the crowds, go early.

12. Seligman And Oatman, Arizona

In Seligman we meet Angel Delgadillo the “guardian angel” of Route 66. He was behind the campaign to keep the route alive.

There are some stunning views as you drive over the Sitgreaves Pass to the old mining town of Oatman. In Oatman “wild” burros roam the streets, they are the descendants of burros brought here by the miners in the late 1800s.

13. A Detour To The Hoover Dam And Las Vegas

We spend the night in Lake Havasu City as we wanted to see the old London Bridge, a very bizarre sight.

As we are driving so close to Las Vegas we had to spend a few days in the city. However, we wouldn’t really describe it as the city of ‘sin ‘ but instead the city of the ‘hidden charges and resort fees’. The big corporations are worse than the old gangsters that used to run the town.

14. The End – Back On Route 66 To Santa Monica

The last leg through California and although not the ‘officia l’ ending, getting to the pier at Santa Monica is a great place to finish Route 66.

On the way we stopped at Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, sadly it was only a few weeks after he passed away. The family have employed a new caretaker for the property and Elmer’s family have said they are “determined to make sure it stays around forever.” We hope so too.

So that was our Route 66 road trip, an experience we hope to repeat very soon. We only scratched the surface of what there is to see and do and we fully understand why people drive it time and again.

Thanks to all the people and ‘characters’ we met on our travels and the help from our fellow Route 66 fans. “ We hope to see you all soon on Route 66 “

Driving Route 66 – Pin For Later

Mr and Mrs W

Marcus and Mellissa, a married couple who love travel and adventure but now require a bit more luxury during their trips. Blogging and vlogging around the world, sharing hints, tips and stories. Enjoying the ride, having a laugh and even the odd argument.

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20 Stops On A Chicago To Los Angeles Driving Vacation

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

The cross-country road trip from Chicago to Los Angeles is a daunting yet rewarding driving vacation to attempt. There are two main routes road trippers can follow to get from Chicago to Southern California. The first is the quickest way to LA, passing through places such as Omaha, Denver and Salt Lake City, while the second route follows the iconic Route 66 through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona before ending up in LA.

There’s no right or wrong way of road-tripping to LA from the Midwest, however, few road journeys can rival the mysterious towns, roadside attractions and stunning landscapes that the historic Route 66 offers. From Chicago and Springfield to Flagstaff and the Death Valley National Park, the most iconic way of travelling from Chicago to Los Angeles or Los Angeles to Chicago follows the remnants of the famous Route 66 through America’s Southwest.

1- Route 66 Starting Point

2- springfield, 3- shawnee national forest, 4- st. louis, 5- meramec caverns, 6- the ozarks, 7- oklahoma city, 8- amarillo, texas, 9- santa fe, 10- meteor crater natural landmark, 11- flagstaff, 12- grand canyon, 13- zion national park, 14- las vegas strip, 15- death valley national park, 16- mojave national preserve, 17- san bernardino national forest, 18- hollywood sign, 19- rodeo drive, 20- santa monica, chicago to los angeles, 20 places to explore on a chicago to los angeles road trip.

The starting point of your epic road trip from Chicago to LA should, without a doubt, be the starting point of one of the most iconic stretches of road in the world, the famous Route 66.

Route 66 was first opened in 1926 and connected the Midwest to the West Coast via Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.

While the route was made redundant many decades ago, over 85% of the original Route 66 remains driveable, making it possible to drive from Chicago to LA almost exclusively on Route 66.

Route 66 starting point is at the corner of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. If you’re spending the night in Chicago , you’ll find lots to do.

Recommended tour: Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Historic Springfield is the capital of the state of Illinois and the first stop along the Illinois section of Route 66.

Founded in 1821, the city is perhaps most famous for being the home of former US President Abraham Lincoln between 1837 and 1861, however, this sizeable city has plenty of other attractions and landmarks to enjoy.

One of the best landmarks in Springfield to see is, without a doubt, the Illinois State Capitol, where leaders like Lincoln and Barack Obama paved the way forward for Illinois and, eventually, the entire country.

Another great Springfield attraction is the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Dana-Thomas House, built in 1904.

With so much to see and do, not to mention important history to uncover, Springfield is an absolute must on any Chicago to LA road trip.

Springfield is 201 miles (3 hours) from Chicago. 

Recommended tour: Springfield City Scavenger Hunt

The massive 289 000-acre (116 954 ha) Shawnee National Forest is sandwiched neatly between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers in the heart of southern Illinois.

Featuring an unblemished landscape highlighted by landmarks and features such as the Garden of the Gods, Jackson Falls and the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail, the forest is among the top outdoor attractions in the Midwest.

While not quite situated along the main route to LA, Shawnee National Forest is simply too beautiful and idyllic to miss out on during your Route 66 road trip to LA, perfect for an overnight camping adventure before heading west to St. Louis.

Shawnee National Forest is 216 miles (3.5 hours) from Springfield. 

Nicknamed the Gateway to the West, the great city of St. Louis is famous for its rowdy sports fans, lively blues music scene and the world-famous Gateway Arch.

The city sits right on the Mississippi and Missouri River confluence, overlooks Illinois to the east, and is the second-largest city in Missouri.

Founded by French fur traders and named in honour of King Louis IX of France, St. Louis was placed firmly on the map when the Lewis and Clark expedition set off from the city in 1804.

Today, this modern and eclectic city boasts a rich craft beer industry, several interesting neighbourhoods and Forest Park, one of the greatest urban parks in America.

St Louis is 152 miles (2.5 hours) from Shawnee National Forest.

Recommended tour: St Louis Lemp Haunted Neighbourhood Walking Tour

Situated underneath the Meramec Valley in eastern Missouri, the Meramec Caverns are a 4.6-mile-long (7.4 km) subterranean cave network located right along Route 66.

The caverns feature multiple Pre-Columbian Native American artefacts, a 6-foot tall (1.83 m) onyx table, a Mirror Room, and several other unique attractions.

Not only are the caverns among the most popular attractions along Route 66, but the caverns have also starred in several Hollywood films and TV shows, including Deep Impact, Lassie and Tom Sawyer.

The Meramec Caverns are 65 miles (about 1 hour) from St Louis. 

The Ozark Mountains, commonly referred to as the Ozarks , is a majestic physiographic region that spills into four states: Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma.

Spanning over 47,000 square miles (122 000 km2), the Ozarks is a major ecological zone with idyllic mountainside towns and incredibly impressive geological features.

The Ozarks also feature the 165-mile (266 km) Ozark Highlands Trail, which connects the Buffalo National River with Lake Fort Smith State Park, ensuring you’ll never miss out on this amazing region’s raw natural beauty.

With plenty of campsites and hotels located all throughout the Ozarks, it’s easy to spend a couple of days here just exploring every nook and cranny of the Ozarks.

The Ozark Mountains is 206 miles (about 3.5 hours) from Meremec Caverns. 

The largest city in the ‘Sooner State’, Oklahoma City is the state’s capital and is home to several attractions for visitors to soak up.

Nicknamed ‘OKC’, the city is home to the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma State Capitol. 

Route 66 cuts right through Oklahoma City, making it an easy place to stop for a day or two.

This modern city treats visitors to world-class shopping and dining options, a bustling nightlife scene, and that unique Western charm to put you in the Frontier spirit during your once-in-a-lifetime road trip.

Oklahoma City is 305 miles (around 5 hours) from The Ozarks. You may want to break your journey in Tulsa , about a 3.5-hour drive from Ozark Mountains. 

Recommended tour: Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum Tickets

Situated within the Texas Panhandle and near the halfway point of Route 66, Amarillo is a vibrant city with an incredibly diverse range of attractions and sights to behold.

The city was a major centre for cattle marketing in the region, however, Amarillo’s past includes all sorts of industries ranging from large-scale helium production to nuclear weapons.

With such a unique history, Amarillo stands out among the other cities along Route 66, boasting many attractions such as the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the Cadillac Ranch.

Stopping by Amarillo is a real treat during any Chicago to LA road trip, thanks to the city’s great mix of old and new architecture, rich culture and collection of unusual roadside attractions.

Amarillo is 260 miles (under 4 hours) from Oklahoma City. 

Crossing the state border into New Mexico and approaching Santa Fe, road trippers are immediately struck by the area’s many Pueblo-style buildings and adobe landmarks.

Santa Fe is New Mexico’s capital and is home to an incredibly rich arts scene that’s rumoured to be among the best in the world.

Although first settled by the Spanish in the 15th century, Santa Fe has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Tewa and Navajo people, giving Santa Fe an incredibly vibrant culture that few cities in the world can rival.

From its famous Santa Fe Plaza and Palace of the Governors to its Georgia O’Keefe Museum and unique New Mexican cuisine, Santa Fe is a truly spectacular destination on the road from Chicago to LA to stop at that’s packed with unique experiences to enjoy.

Santa Fe is 285 miles (4.5 hours) from Amarillo. 

Recommended tour: Santa Fe Revisited

Right before arriving in Flagstaff, road trippers are struck with one of the world’s most unique and awe-inspiring sights, the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark.

Located roughly 37 miles (60 km) east of Downtown Flagstaff, the Meteor Crater is over 3,900 feet wide (1,200 m) and 560 feet deep (170 m), making it one of the largest impact craters in the world.

The meteorite that caused the massive impact struck approximately 50,000 years ago, quite recent in geological terms.

Despite large efforts made to turn the crater into a recognised public landmark, the crater is still privately owned by the Barringer Crater Company, which prides itself on preserving the crater for future generations to experience.

Even though the crater is located on private property, it remains open to the public and features a museum and visitor centre for travellers to learn all about this famous Arizona landmark .

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is 352 miles (about 5 hours) from Santa Fe. Along the way, you could stop at Albuquerque.

Situated within the tall mountainous terrain of Northern Arizona, Flagstaff is a true year-round vacation destination boasting indoor and outdoor activities to partake in every season of the year.

During spring, Flagstaff comes alive with vivid colours as the world’s largest emerald green ponderosa pine forest blooms.

In winter and autumn, Flagstaff transforms into Arizona’s own Aspen, with skiing and snowboarding opportunities available around every bend.

Summertime brings clear skies and a mild climate to Flagstaff, making for perfect hiking or camping opportunities.

It doesn’t matter what time of the year you decide to pass through Flagstaff, you’ll find lots to do in and around this amazing Arizona destination.

Flagstaff is 43 miles (44 minutes) from Meteor Crater Natural Landmark.

Recommended tour: Flagstaff Haunted History Tour

The Grand Canyon is THE must-see landmark during any road trip from Chicago to LA.

Situated within the Grand Canyon National Park, this iconic landmark is famous around the world for its stunning gorges, colourful cliffs and enormous size, as well as its unblemished landscapes and rich biodiversity.

With many activities around or within the canyon, such as an ultra-marathon and the popular Grand Canyon Skywalk, the canyon is among the world’s greatest outdoor attractions.

Not only is the Grand Canyon free to enjoy and packed with activities for all ages, but its convenient location right along the main route to LA makes it an absolute no-brainer to put on your road trip list.

Grand Canyon National Park is 75 miles (1.5 hours) from Flagstaff. 

Recommended tour: Grand Canyon Railway Adventure Package

The stunning Zion National Park is located in Utah’s southwestern corner and is roughly 250 miles (402 km) north of the Grand Canyon National Park.

Best known for its steep canyons, natural arches and rich Native American history, Zion National Park’s incredibly unique landscapes can be derived from the park’s geographic location at the conjunction between the Colorado Plateau, Mojave Desert and Great Basin.

Zion blends some of the best landscapes in the world to create one truly terrific outdoor destination that must be seen to truly believe.

The park is immensely popular as a camping and glamping venue, so there’s no shortage of fantastic overnight options to choose from if you’re planning on setting up camp for a day or two before hitting the road again.

While not quite on the main route to LA from Chicago, Zion National Park is worth the short detour from Arizona to truly take in all the sights and activities on offer within and around Zion National Park.

Zion National Park is 332 miles (5.5 hours) from Grand Canyon National Park and well worth the detour!

Recommended tour: Award-Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour

When road-tripping west towards LA, you simply have to stop at Las Vegas, and in Las Vegas, there’s no other place quite like the Strip.

The highlight of any trip to Sin City and the heart of all the city’s action, nightlife and famous sights, the Las Vegas Strip is a 2.5-mile-long (4 km) stretch of hotels and casinos that cuts right through the city’s downtown area from north to south.

The Las Vegas Strip is a section of Las Vegas Boulevard, featuring all the ritzy venues Las Vegas is so famous for around the world.

One of the best ways of experiencing the Strip is by foot, to take in attractions such as The Venetian, Caesar’s Palace and the Bellagio, including top dining and shopping options in Las Vegas at night .

With so many great places to see and iconic landmarks in Las Vegas to visit, it’s best to allocate a couple of days just to explore every inch of this remarkable stretch of road in one of the world’s major entertainment hubs.

Las Vegas is 164 miles (under 3 hours) from Zion National Park.

Recommended tour: Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with optional VIP transportation

The infamous Death Valley National Park is a place of uttermost extremes on the California-Nevada border.

The park’s hot daytime temperatures and frigid night-time conditions make it one of the most physically challenging parks to visit in the United States.

It’s in the Death Valley National Park where the highest ambient air temperature on Earth was measured in 1916, clocking in at a sizzling 134 °F (56.7 °C) on the thermometer.

Not only is the park’s extreme heat a challenge to overcome, but it’s also the driest place in North America.

Yet, despite its inhospitable nature, the park is home to splendid natural features and is a fantastic spot to gaze at the stars away from city light pollution.

Death Valley National Park is 118 miles (2 hours) from Las Vegas and can easily be done as a day trip from Las Vegas if you want to base yourself in the city for longer. 

Recommended tour: Death Valley Small Group Day Adventure from LV

One of the major natural and historic landmarks in California , the Mojave National Preserve tells the story of man’s connection to the desert that’s more than 10,000 years in the making.

From the arrival of the first Native Americans millennia ago, this preserve has captivated visitors with its awe-inspiring dunes and Joshua Trees.

Mojave National Preserve is the third-largest protected stretch of land under the National Park Service’s care and is conveniently situated roughly halfway between Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

The preserve is amazing to visit and has unique natural landmarks to discover, such as the Mojave Desert Mailbox, the Lava Tubes Trail and the Mojave Memorial Cross for guests to enjoy.

Mojave National Preserve is 274 miles (2.5 hours) from Death Valley National Park.

Recommended tour: Valley of Fire and California Mojave Desert tour

The scenic San Bernardino National Forest incorporates diverse climates and biomes to create an outdoor wonderland. 

The sprawling forest’s landscapes range from barren desert to the tallest alpine mountain range in SoCal.

With over 820,000 acres (331,842 ha) of unblemished nature to uncover and stunning natural features to take in, such as the San Jacinto Mountains and Bighorn Mountain, it’s easy to see why locals flock to these foothills every year.

San Bernardino National Forest is 156 miles (under 3 hours) from Mojave National Preserve.

Stopping by the world-famous Hollywood Sign is a rite of passage for many first-time visitors looking for famous landmarks in Los Angeles .

Perched atop Mount Lee, the Hollywood sign is one of the city’s most photographed sites and serves as a monument to Tinseltown’s film industry that’s so ingrained into SoCal and Western pop culture.

Even though direct access to the sign is strictly prohibited, the nearby Griffith Observatory and Mount Lee summit are two of the best places to see the sign up close.

A truly amazing spectacle to clap your eyes on for the first time, the Hollywood sign is a popular highlight of the entire road trip.

The Hollywood Sign is 122 miles (2.5 hours) from San Bernardino National Forest.

Recommended tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles (free water and photos)

A convergence of upscale shopping and entertainment in Beverly Hills , Rodeo Drive is synonymous with luxurious boutiques and Hollywood’s elite.

Spanning roughly 2 miles (3.2 km) from Sunset Boulevard in the north to Beverwil Drive in the south, Rodeo Drive first began receiving an influx of high-end shops right around the start of the 1960s.

Even though shopping is the major attraction along Rodeo Drive, you don’t have to splurge to have a great time visiting this iconic LA landmark, thanks to the district’s beautiful architecture and scenery which can easily be enjoyed on foot.

Regardless of whether you’re planning a last-minute shopping spree or just window shopping, Rodeo Drive is unlike any other venue in the world, making it the perfect stopping point to say goodbye to Hollywood and Beverly Hills. 

Rodeo Drive is 10 miles (28 minutes) from the Hollywood sign. 

Recommended tour: Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

The famous seaside city of Santa Monica lies just outside Downtown LA and is the best place to end what is perhaps the most iconic road trip in the world.

Featuring an illuminated pier, energetic rooftop bars and clubs overlooking the ocean, and some of LA’s best restaurants, Santa Monica is the place to be in SoCal.

Not only is this vibrant city the beating heart of LA’s surfing and skateboarding scene, but it’s also renowned for its amazing arts and shopping scenes.

From its sandy beaches to Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica is a fun place to end (or start your journey if you’re driving from Los Angeles to Chicago). 

Santa Monica is 8.4 miles (15 minutes) from Rodeo Drive. 

Recommended tour: Small Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach

Looking for a road trip? Here are some epic driving vacations.

• Canada Road Trip
• Driving The Icefields Parkway
• Andalucia Road Trip
• Queensland Road Trip
• Argentina Road Trip
• Tasmania Road Trip 
• Cambodia Road Trip
• Nashville to Memphis Drive
• Dallas to Austin Drive
• Houston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Washington DC Road Trip
• Boston to New York Road Trip
• Boston to San Francisco Road Trip
• Boston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Miami to Atlanta Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip
• San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip
• San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park Drive
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Drive
• Chicago to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Phoenix to San Francisco Road Trip
• Vancouver to Seattle Road Trip
• Houston to Denver Road Trip
• Montreal to New York Road Trip
• Houston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• New York to San Francisco Road Trip
• Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip
• Houston to New Orleans Road Trip
• Tucson to Phoenix Road Trip

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

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The Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Driving From Los Angeles To Chicago

If you’re looking to embark on the classic American cross-country road trip from LA to Chicago, you likely have a lot of questions. What route should you take? How many days will this epic drive realistically take? What are some top attractions and stops to make along the way? Here’s a quick answer: the fastest route from LA to Chicago is along I-40 E, and you’ll want to give yourself 4-5 days for this 2,000+ mile journey. Some top stops include the Grand Canyon, Route 66 landmarks, Memphis for barbecue, and St. Louis. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide tips on mapping your LA to Chicago road trip route, timing, stops, packing, and more to make your drive amazing.

Route Options

If you’re looking for a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States, then I-40 E is the route for you. This iconic highway stretches from Los Angeles all the way to North Carolina, passing through states like Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma along the way.

As you drive eastward, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon, the Painted Desert, and the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. Make sure to plan your stops in advance, as there are plenty of attractions and natural wonders to explore along this route.

I-70 E from Utah

Another popular option for driving from Los Angeles to Chicago is taking I-70 E from Utah. This route will take you through some of the most picturesque parts of the Rocky Mountains, including the stunning canyons of Utah and the majestic peaks of Colorado.

As you make your way through this scenic route, be prepared to be amazed by the beauty of Arches National Park, the towering cliffs of Glenwood Canyon, and the charming mountain towns that dot the landscape.

Don’t forget to pack your camera and hiking boots, as there will be plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures along the way.

I-80 E from Nevada

If you’re looking for a more direct route from Los Angeles to Chicago, then I-80 E from Nevada is the way to go. This interstate highway cuts straight through the heart of the country, passing through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois.

While this route may not offer the same scenic views as the other options, it does provide a faster and more efficient way to reach your destination. Along the way, you’ll pass through major cities like Salt Lake City, Omaha, and Des Moines, giving you the opportunity to explore urban attractions and experience the unique culture of the Midwest.

No matter which route you choose, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your road trip. Be sure to check the weather conditions and road closures before you leave, and don’t forget to pack snacks, drinks, and a good playlist to keep you entertained along the way.

Safe travels!

Length & Timing

Total drive time.

Driving from Los Angeles to Chicago is an epic road trip that spans a considerable distance. The total drive time for this journey is approximately 30 hours, covering a distance of around 2,000 miles. However, it’s important to note that the actual drive time may vary depending on factors such as traffic conditions, rest stops, and the route you choose to take.

Typical Number of Days

While it is possible to complete the drive from Los Angeles to Chicago in as little as two or three days, it is recommended to allow yourself at least five to seven days to fully enjoy the journey. This will give you enough time to make stops along the way, explore interesting attractions, and take in the breathtaking landscapes that you’ll encounter.

If you’re on a tight schedule and can’t spare that much time, you can still make the trip in a shorter duration. However, keep in mind that you may have to cut down on the number of stops and attractions you can visit.

It’s always better to have a bit of flexibility in your schedule to fully savor the experience.

Best Time of Year

The best time to embark on a road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago largely depends on personal preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. However, it is generally recommended to avoid the extreme weather conditions that can be experienced in certain seasons.

The summer months, from June to August, are a popular time for road trips as the weather is generally pleasant and there are plenty of activities and events happening along the way. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, which means more crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild temperatures, consider planning your road trip during the spring or fall months. These shoulder seasons offer beautiful scenery, fewer tourists, and more affordable prices.

However, it’s a good idea to check the weather conditions and road closures before setting off, as these seasons can also bring unpredictable weather.

For those who are up for a winter adventure, driving from Los Angeles to Chicago in the colder months can be a unique and memorable experience. However, be prepared for snow and icy conditions, and make sure you have appropriate winter tires and emergency supplies in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information on road conditions and weather forecasts along the route, check out websites such as weather.com or tripadvisor.com .

Key Stops & Attractions

Grand canyon, az.

One of the must-see stops on a road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago is the majestic Grand Canyon in Arizona. With its awe-inspiring panoramic views and stunning natural beauty, the Grand Canyon is truly a sight to behold.

Whether you choose to hike along the rim, take a helicopter tour, or simply soak in the breathtaking vistas, this iconic landmark is sure to leave you in awe.

Las Vegas, NV

No road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago is complete without a stop in the vibrant and electrifying city of Las Vegas. Known for its world-class entertainment, dazzling casinos, and bustling nightlife, Las Vegas offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Try your luck at the slot machines, catch a spectacular show, or simply stroll along the famous Las Vegas Strip – there’s something for everyone in this city that never sleeps.

Route 66 Stops

Driving along the historic Route 66 is an essential part of the journey from Los Angeles to Chicago. This iconic highway is filled with quirky roadside attractions, charming small towns, and nostalgic Americana.

From the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, to the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, each stop along Route 66 offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of America’s past.

Memphis, TN

As you make your way through the heartland of America, a stop in Memphis, Tennessee, is a must. Known as the birthplace of blues music and the home of Elvis Presley, Memphis offers a vibrant music scene and a rich cultural heritage.

Visit Graceland, the legendary home of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, explore the iconic Beale Street, and indulge in some mouthwatering barbecue – Memphis has something to satisfy all your senses.

St. Louis, MO

Before reaching your final destination, take a detour to St. Louis, Missouri. This charming city is famous for its iconic Gateway Arch, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding cityscape.

Visit the historic Soulard neighborhood, home to one of the oldest farmers markets in the country, or explore the vibrant Delmar Loop, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

These are just a few of the key stops and attractions to consider when embarking on a road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago. Remember to plan your itinerary ahead of time, allowing for flexibility to explore unexpected hidden gems along the way. Happy travels!

Lodging & Dining Recommendations

When embarking on a road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago, finding the right hotels to stay at along the way is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Some popular hotel options along this route include:

• The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles – Located in the heart of downtown LA, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the city skyline and top-notch amenities.
• The Drake Hotel, Chicago – Situated along the Magnificent Mile, this historic hotel is known for its elegant decor and exceptional service.
• The Venetian, Las Vegas – If you’re looking to add a little excitement to your road trip, consider a stop in Las Vegas and stay at this iconic hotel on the Strip.

These hotels offer a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Make sure to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Campgrounds

For those seeking a more adventurous and nature-oriented experience, camping along the route is a great option. Here are a few recommended campgrounds:

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – Camp amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon and enjoy hiking trails and stunning sunsets.
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado – Set up camp in the picturesque Rocky Mountains and explore the park’s numerous hiking trails and wildlife.
• Indiana Dunes State Park, Indiana – Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this park offers beautiful sandy beaches and camping facilities.

Remember to check availability and make reservations ahead of time, as popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

Classic Diners

No road trip is complete without indulging in some classic American diner food. Along the Los Angeles to Chicago route, you’ll come across several charming diners that are worth a visit, such as:

• Phil’s Diner, Flagstaff, Arizona – This iconic diner has been serving up delicious comfort food since 1927 and is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
• Lou Mitchell’s, Chicago, Illinois – A historic diner that has been welcoming hungry patrons since 1923, known for its hearty breakfasts and friendly atmosphere.
• The Apple Pan, Los Angeles, California – A beloved LA institution that has been serving up delicious burgers and pies since 1947.

These diners offer a taste of nostalgia and provide a unique dining experience that will leave you satisfied and ready to hit the road again.

If you’re a barbecue enthusiast, you’re in luck. The route from Los Angeles to Chicago is dotted with fantastic BBQ joints where you can savor mouthwatering smoked meats. Here are a few notable ones:

• Bludso’s BBQ, Los Angeles, California – Known for its authentic Texas-style barbecue, Bludso’s is a must-visit for meat lovers.
• Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Kansas City, Missouri – Located in the barbecue capital of the world, Joe’s is famous for its burnt ends and ribs.
• Lillie’s Q, Chicago, Illinois – A Chicago staple, Lillie’s Q offers a diverse menu of BBQ options, from pulled pork to brisket.

These BBQ joints will satisfy your cravings for smoky, tender meats and introduce you to regional flavors and techniques.

Remember, the key to a successful road trip is to plan ahead, but also be open to unexpected discoveries along the way. Whether you choose to stay in luxurious hotels, camp under the stars, dine at classic diners, or savor delicious BBQ, this road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

Packing Checklist

Clothing & shoes.

When packing for your road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago, it’s important to consider the varying weather conditions along the way. Be sure to pack a mix of clothing options, including lightweight and breathable items for the warmer states and layerable pieces for the cooler regions.

Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for all the walking and exploring you’ll be doing. It’s also a good idea to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, just in case.

Having the right toiletries can make your road trip much more comfortable. Remember to pack essentials such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Don’t forget any medication you may need, and be sure to bring sunscreen and bug spray for protection during outdoor activities.

It’s also a good idea to have a basic first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

Entertainment

Keeping yourself entertained during the long hours on the road is essential for a successful road trip. Consider bringing along books, magazines, or a Kindle for reading. Audiobooks and podcasts are also great options for passing the time.

If you’re traveling with kids, pack some games, coloring books, or portable DVD players to keep them entertained. Don’t forget chargers for your electronic devices, as well as headphones for personal listening.

Road Trip Snacks

No road trip is complete without delicious snacks to keep you fueled along the way. Pack a variety of snacks that appeal to everyone’s tastes, such as granola bars, trail mix, chips, and fruit. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.

It’s also a good idea to have a cooler with ice packs to keep perishable snacks fresh. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some classic road trip treats like beef jerky and candy!

Road Trip Tips & Safety

Embarking on a road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago is an exciting adventure, but it’s important to prioritize safety along the way. Here are some essential road trip tips to ensure a smooth and secure journey:

Vehicle Inspection

Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect your vehicle. Check the tires for proper inflation and tread depth, ensuring they are suitable for long-distance driving. Don’t forget to examine the brakes, headlights, and signals to guarantee they’re in optimal working condition.

Regular oil changes and fluid checks are also essential for the overall health of your vehicle.

Emergency Equipment

Being prepared for unforeseen circumstances is vital during a road trip. Pack essential emergency equipment such as a spare tire, jack, jumper cables, and a basic toolkit. Additionally, having a first aid kit, flashlight, and extra water and food supplies can prove invaluable in case of unexpected delays or accidents.

It’s better to be over-prepared than to find yourself stranded without the necessary tools.

Staying Alert

Long drives can be tiring, so it’s important to stay alert and avoid drowsy driving. Get a good night’s sleep before starting your journey and take regular breaks every few hours to stretch your legs and rest your eyes.

If you start feeling fatigued, it’s better to find a safe place to pull over and take a short nap. Remember, your safety and the safety of others on the road should always be the top priority.

Road Safety Laws

Each state has its own set of road safety laws, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them before embarking on your road trip. Speed limits, seatbelt requirements, and cell phone usage regulations can differ from state to state.

Visit websites such as dmv.ca.gov or cyberdriveillinois.com to ensure you are up to date with the specific laws of California and Illinois.

Remember, a road trip should be a fun and memorable experience. By following these road trip tips and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the journey from Los Angeles to Chicago with peace of mind.

A road trip from LA to Chicago is the quintessential way to see the diversity of American landscapes and cultures. With the right preparation and route planning, you’re bound to have an epic adventure. We hope this guide has outlined the optimal route, timing, stops, packing tips, and safety advice to make your LA to Chicago drive smooth and memorable.

Hi there, I'm Jessica, the solo traveler behind the travel blog Eye & Pen. I launched my site in 2020 to share over a decade of adventurous stories and vivid photography from my expeditions across 30+ countries. When I'm not wandering, you can find me freelance writing from my home base in Denver, hiking Colorado's peaks with my rescue pup Belle, or enjoying local craft beers with friends.

I specialize in budget tips, unique lodging spotlights, road trip routes, travel hacking guides, and female solo travel for publications like Travel+Leisure and Matador Network. Through my photography and writing, I hope to immerse readers in new cultures and compelling destinations not found in most guidebooks. I'd love for you to join me on my lifelong journey of visual storytelling!

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Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary: From the Pacific to the Redwoods!

Are you looking for the best California road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places in the Golden State? Our 10 days in California itinerary will take you from the rugged coast and beautiful beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevadas. Hike the Mojave desert, sleep underneath a yucca tree, and visit the lowest place on the continent while you road trip in California. Read our 10 day California Road Trip guide now. You may also like our post on 20 Best Road Trips in the USA .

Welcome to our ultimate California road trip planner!

We created this planner to help you plan the perfect road trip around California and it contains all the essential information you need to plan your trip today including budget and costs, what to eat, where to stay, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of California itineraries as well as get more information on California road trip must-see attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Big Sur, Yosemite, and Los Angeles.

Our mission? To make sure you have a blast in California!

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary California To Texas road trip planner Best Things to do in Washington State

California is our favorite destination ever.

I have been enamored with California long before I visited it.

California, San Jose, and the West coast are randomly thrown around in conversations in India – because everyone knows someone working in Silicon Valley – and you can’t help but know about this slice of America.

Growing up, I knew more about Cisco, Apple, Google, and Yahoo (remember when everyone used Yahoo?!) than San Francisco, Yosemite, and Big Sur.

And Disney – because everyone knows Disney!

California has such a unique history.

The oldest, tallest, and widest trees live here and guess what, they have been around since prehistoric times – yes, even dinosaurs lived among the redwood trees!

One of the lowest, aridest, and hottest places on earth is right here in California in Badwater Basin.

And as for scenic places: California has so many of them!

We love Big Sur and its rocky coast, the wildflower super blooms, blue Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake and its tufas, unique shapes of Joshua trees!

There are so many things to see in California road trip that the list just goes on!

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

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

And that’s why in our California road trip itinerary of 10 days, we take you around all these unique and beautiful places in the Golden State.

Our California 10 day road trip itinerary is perfect for driving around dreamy landscapes of yellow poppies, orange orchards, purple foliage, and lush green vineyards.

We have divided this California roadtrip itinerary into 4 essential stretches as per the geographic features of the state – yepp, we are that geeky – and you can customize it as you want. 

Best waterproof walking shoes for California beaches

If you are a beach person like me, then extend the Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary to 10 days.

If you are a mountain lover like my hubby, then take a 10 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Pick your favorite area and stay there as long as you want. Or follow our California in 10 days itinerary exactly as described!

As always, we have also included suggestions for if you have more or less time.

Whatever you chose, you are going to have the time of your lives – because this is California!

“Every time I come, I’m still amazed at the breadth California has. Big Sur, Yosemite, the desert… I love it.” – Theo James, the English actor

Best of California Road Trip 10 Days Itinerary

We, like most people, have seen California in bits and pieces rather than in one go.

We first visited California almost a decade ago and did San Francisco, Los Angeles, and the theme parks.

Second time around, we visited Death Valley National Park on a road trip from Vegas.

Then I lived and worked in the Bay area in tech (oh, the irony!) and that’s when we explored the California National Parks, North Coast, and the Sierra Nevada side of the state.

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Most recently, we did the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip along the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway – oh and also road-tripped Southern California and Disney with the kids.

On our next trip – we plan to do the North Coast and Redwoods Scenic Highway AGAIN.

Yeah – that’s how much we love California – have been to many destinations several times and still can’t have enough.

The best way to tour California is obviously by driving. The state is beautiful but huge and it’s not easy planning California trip that covers all the major attractions with limited time in hand.

And planning a California road trip with kids is even more difficult – how do you prioritize between theme parks and natural attractions?

And that’s where we rush in – your knights in shining armor – delivering the ultimate 10 day California road trip itinerary. 

Our California trip planner is more like going on a series of best California road trips – each more gorgeous than the previous.

Also, we follow this road trip along two of California’s most popular routes: south on the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway and then back north along the scenic SR 395 through Eastern California .

That’s what makes our itinerary the absolute best California driving trip planner!

You can also call it the California National Parks road trip because we will be visiting the most popular of them on an epic road trip.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Stretch 1: Down The Pacific Coast – 4 Days

Often enough, when someone talks about a California driving holiday, this stretch along the Pacific Coast Highway is the one they actually mean.

Constantly ranked among the top scenic drives in the world, the coastal drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles is the best of both worlds.

It combines the urban getaways of California’s two largest cities with the natural panoramas of Big Sur and the Pacific. 

If you have limited time, we would recommend spending 3 to 4 days along this route.

If you want to focus only on this coastal road trip, then just drive south on a road trip from San Francisco on SR1.

Take your own time to enjoy roadside stops like Carmel-By-The-Sea, Morro Bay, and the stunning Big Sur.

Hike or camp and explore nature.

Here’s our suggestion for this stretch of 10 day California itinerary planner.

San Francisco – 1 Day

Start with our San Francisco road trip planner.

San Francisco is our favorite city to start a 10 day California trip.

The city is quite easy to fly into; the 3 airports of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland are located close by and many airlines have deals to the Bay area.

We would recommend spending a minimum of one day in San Francisco before picking up your rental car and driving south.

Or you can rent a car before, see SF, and then drive the PCH.

You can also start your 10 day road trip from Los Angeles, in that case, adjust your plans accordingly.

Read this now! Whatever you do – don’t casually park your car at an empty garage in San Francisco. Car Break-ins in San Francisco are very common, as we discovered to our ill-fortune . On our latest trip to San Francisco, we had parked in a garage two blocks away from Pier 39 and came back to find the rear glass broken and both our children’s suitcases gone!  We had to spend quite some time to sort the issue and it left a sad memory on an otherwise awesome road trip around California in 10 days. We would recommend parking at your hotel while taking a cab or the tram to explore the city. 

San Francisco has many names – SF, San Fran, Fog City, the City by the Bay, Frisco (though don’t say that in front of locals) or simply, the City – going back to the days of the Wild West when there was nothing much in Northern California but the city.

San Francisco is colorful, vibrant, and bohemian.

It’s amongst our favorite US cities – right there at the top along with New York , Chicago , and New Orleans.

There are quite a few things to do in San Francisco: unsurprisingly most of them begin at or near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco’s gigantic urban park.

Begin your visit at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center near the southern end of the bridge.

Learn interesting facts and see construction relics from the building of the Golden Gate Bridge before visiting the bridge itself.

Next walk across all 1.7 miles of this engineering marvel and icon of America.

The views of the bay from the bridge are beautiful and you feel an indescribable thrill while walking across it.

Definitely the highlight of your California travel itinerary!

Up for more adventure?

Bike the Golden Gate!

We have done it twice – most recently with our 3 yrs and 6 months old kids – it is a superb experience.

We love biking across to Sausalito, exploring the quaint town, and taking the ferry back to San Francisco.

You can also bike to the redwoods if you have more time.

Read our ultimate guide to biking the bridge here.

If not biking, then use the rest of your day to explore San Francisco’s highlights: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, Lombard Street, and Ghirardelli Square.

If you want to spend more time in San Francisco, see the Painted Ladies – those famous SF houses shown in Full House!

You can also check out the city from the Twin Peaks.

The Golden Gate Park is perfect for a stroll.

Ride the cable car to Chinatown and have some dumplings and noodles for lunch.

Spend an afternoon admiring the beautiful architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts or visit the prison of Alcatraz Island.

Visit the beautiful redwood trees at Muir Woods National Monument or whale watch and hike at Point Reyes.

San Francisco is a beautiful city and you can easily spend a couple of days there as a part of your 10 day trip to California.

Read our San Francisco posts now to plan this part of the trip: San Francisco 3 to 5-day itinerary ideas 17 Best Things to do in San Francisco on your first visit

The area around San Francisco is also full of activities and tourist attractions.

Here are some suggestions if you want to spend a few more days exploring around the Bay Area during your California itinerary of 10 days:

Napa & Sonoma 

Take a day trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley along the Silverado Trail.

Sonoma County is also a great place to visit for wine lovers.

You can tour the many vineyards, taste local wines, dine at Michelin starred restaurants, and visit famous tasting rooms.

If you happen to visit in the fall, you will see beautiful fall colors in the vineyards and be able to attend grape stomping. 

San Jose is popular with millennials and those working in Silicon Valley.

You will find plenty of trendy nightclubs and bars in San Jose.

If you enjoy shopping, check out the high fashion brands on Santana Row.

For outdoor lovers, a hike to Mission Peak is a must while families will love the Winchester Mystery House.

Silicon Valley

If you love tech then you need to visit Silicon Valley.

It boasts the largest concentration of geeks and nerds – and as a fellow geek, I say it quite fondly!

Start your visit at the Computer History Museum to know everything about the machine that changed our lives.

Then see Google’s Android lawn sculptures in Mountain View or the garage where Hewlett Packard began in Palo Alto.

Visit Stanford University’s sprawling campus as well as Facebook and Apple!

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip – 2 Days

On to the next part of the 10 day road trip in California.

After seeing San Francisco, drive south along the SR1 or Pacific Coast Highway.

Over the next 2 days, you will follow the coastal route to Los Angeles while making plenty of stops along the way.

Check the coastal communities of Half Moon Bay and Davenport before reaching Santa Cruz.

If you have kids, spend some time at the Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk.

Next visit Monterey and Carmel by the Sea. Hike in Point Lobos or walk the coastal bluffs at Garrapata State Park.

On the way, you will see secret beaches, hidden coves, and beautiful views. 

As you begin driving PCH1 while following our 10 days in California itinerary, you understand why artists settle here, photographers and writers both wax lyrical about this region, and why the drive is called the most beautiful in the world.

We recommend staying somewhere in the vicinity of Carmel Highlands for the night.

The next day, rise early for the star attraction of the drive: the 90-mile long rugged, wild Big Sur.

Big Sur is 6 hours from Los Angeles and you have a big day ahead.

It is really hard to describe Big Sur.

Rocky cliffs, foaming waves, spring wildflowers, lighthouses, migrating whales, turquoise water, redwood trees: Big Sur has everything.

It is gorgeous in a wild way.

In Big Sur, you will find amazing state parks, some of California’s best hiking trails, iconic beaches, and tons of marine life, including otters, elephant seals, and dolphins.

Some areas of Big Sur can be closed at any given time of the year due to floods or landslides – so we recommend checking out the PCH status before your 10 days road trip California.

Read more about all the attractions including the beautiful McWay Falls in our post One day in Big Sur . 

Other attractions of the Pacific Coast Highway drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles include Monterey’s famous 17-mile drive, the seaside towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay, the famous Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and the beaches of Malibu.

For the purposes of this California Itinerary of 10 days, we would suggest 2 to 3 days on PCH.

However, if you have more time then the PCH is easily a 4 day to week-long road trip in itself.

To read more about all the awesome stops on PCH and planning a detailed itinerary, check out our article on Planning a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway . 

Also Read: Top 10 Convertible drives in the USA

Los Angeles – 1 Day

While San Francisco and Silicon Valley are for tech lovers, Los Angeles is for Hollywood fans.

How long to stay in Los Angeles is a tricky question.

If you only have one day in Los Angeles, start by seeing the famous Hollywood sign and then visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame to take selfies with your favorite stars.

Also, see the Kodak Theatre (now Dolby Theatre) which hosts the Oscars and tour the movie star homes on Rodeo Drive.

If you have more time to explore Los Angeles, we suggest starting with lunch at the Santa Monica Pier.

Then visit the Griffith Observatory and see Los Angeles from above.

Or you can take a behind the scenes VIP studio tour at one of your favorite studios: pick from Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures or Sony!

You can also check out the beautiful exhibits at the Getty Center or the beautiful modern art at the Broad.

LA also has many other top museums and a large number of attractions – read our post on Best Things to do in Los Angeles for more ideas.

For more help in planning your day, read our Los Angeles itinerary for first-time visitors .

Here are some suggestions to explore the area beyond Downtown Los Angeles:

No California family road trip is complete without a trip to Disney.

Both of California’s Disney Parks are located close to Los Angeles in Anaheim.

On the best California vacation itinerary, you have to meet Mickey, Goofy and other beloved cartoon characters!

Kids also get to meet Disney’s princesses in full attire at the parks.

To plan a California family vacation itinerary including a trip to Disney, read our Disney posts .

Universal Studios

To understand all about movie-making, see movie sets, and enjoy thrilling rides visit Universal Studios.

This theme park has really cool attractions and the Studio Tour will take you through sets based on Shutter Island, Jaws, King Kong, and more.

Harry Potter fans will love visiting Hogwarts and taking thrilling rides based on the books and movies – and is a must-visit if you are spending 10 days in California.

Channel Islands National Park

For a unique experience, customize our itinerary for California 10 days and visit the remote Channel Islands.

Comprised of 5 islands, the park has excellent wildlife, sea caves, and lots of natural beauty.

You can take a ferry to the park from Ventura.

Optional: San Diego – 1 Day

From Los Angeles, you can venture on the next part of California 10 day itinerary or extend your trip down the coast by visiting San Diego.

Not many people know that San Diego is the oldest city on the West Coast.

It has beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and lots of history. 

Read our post 22 Best Things to do in San Diego now to know more about this beautiful city.

If you have one day, you can visit the Historic Old Town and understand the Mexican and Wild West roots of the city.

Next, visit the famous Balboa Park with its beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and the San Diego Zoo.

Round off your time in the city by exploring the historic Gaslamp Quarter and its Victorian architecture and trendy eateries, hotels, and pubs.

This area is perfect for ending the day with dinner and drinks.

If you have more than a day, visit the famous San Diego Sea World and see the dolphins in action.

San Diego is home to many beautiful beaches; the Mission Beach boardwalk is very popular.

Other things to see include Mission San Diego, Sunset Cliffs Park, and the bustling waterfront area of Seaport Village.

If you have more time on 10 day itinerary California, check out the dramatic sculptures in the desert city of Borrego Springs.

Related: For more California road trip ideas, check out our post on 12 Best California road trips

Stretch 2: Through The Arid Californian Desert – 2 Days

Continue on the California road trip route planner through deserts of southern California.

While most people associate California primarily with the coast and then with the dense redwood forests, the state is also renowned for its unique desert landscapes.

Most of these parts of southern California have a desolate beauty.

It is full of desert cities like Palm Springs which offer unique tourist attractions for visitors.

In this post, we focus our California 10 days itinerary on exploring two of the region’s national parks: Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park – 1 Day

Located partly over the Colorado desert and the Mojave desert, Joshua Tree National Park is named after the iconic Joshua tree.

This is a type of Yucca tree that is twisted, scraggly, and found only in the Mojave desert of California.

The easily recognizable tree looks even more dramatic in the desert landscape and bare rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park.

The national park is one of the most underrated California road trip destinations.

Its unique vistas have drawn photographers and artists to the park for decades.

Read our post on One Day in Joshua Tree to plan your trip.

There are many things to do in Joshua Tree and its otherworldly landscape.

One of the best ways to see Joshua Tree is by driving around the paved road in the park.

Campsites in Joshua Tree are spectacular and hikes through Yucca trees and cacti adventurous.

The Hidden Valley Trail is a short mile-long trail that offers great desert landscape views.

The park has many popular geological rock formations that are used for rock climbing.

The park also has a dark night sky and is good for stargazers, astronomy enthusiasts, and night sky photographers.

Wildlife and birding opportunities around the park are also numerous.

Read more in our post 24 Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park .

While deciding how to plan a trip to California, we recommend keeping more time aside to explore the many attractions surrounding Joshua Tree.

You can easily include them on a South California road trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree in this order: San Diego – Anza Borrego – Galleta Meadows – Salton Sea – Palm Springs – Joshua Tree.

Here’s some more information about these desert experiences that are worth adding to your itinerary if you have the time.

Salton Sea 

The Salton Sea is an inland lake created by flooding from an irrigation canal of the Colorado River that carries water to the Imperial Valley in 1905.

Several resort communities were built along the new lake.

However, the lake has no discharge and as a result, the water became unusually saline causing the death of marine life.

As a result, the communities were abandoned and are extremely popular with ruin photographers.

If you have teens, then definitely include Bombay Beach ruins in your California vacation itinerary – they will love to see random objects lying on the beach.

Today, the Salton Sea shoreline is filled with deteriorating structures and RV communities.

The Salton Sea is also located directly on top of the San Andreas fault and geothermal activity including mud pools are present along the coast.

The Salton Sea State Recreation Area is popular for birding, boating, picnicking, and camping. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, located in the Colorado desert region, is one of the biggest Californian desert cities.

If you want a relaxing vacation, then Palm Springs is one of the best California ideas.

One of its main attractions is the Palm Springs aerial tramway which takes you up Mount San Jacinto and offers great views of the surrounding area.

Palm Springs also has many great museums, boutique stores, restaurants, and resorts.

It is one of the most popular winter vacation destinations in the USA.

If you plan to visit Palm Springs, then check out our post on 30 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California.

Anza Borrego and Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs

While California has many beautiful state parks, few know about its largest – Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

This park is at its most beautiful in the spring when the cacti flower and the desert landscape comes alive with colors.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park is just two hours away from San Diego and can be seen on a San Diego Joshua Valley road trip.

In nearby Borrego Springs, you can see the unusual Galleta Meadows Estate sculptures.

These sculptures created by artist Ricardo Breceda are free to visit and beautiful works of art.

By driving all over the land you can spot dragons, serpents, wooly mammoths, and other fantastic creatures.  

Also, read our post on Planning the ultimate Southern California itinerary.

Coachella Valley Preserve 

Coachella’s Thousand Palms Oasis is a unique chance to see the oasis environment in the middle of the desert.

The oases directly sit on fault lines and the water seeping through the faults has given life to California Fan Palms and other big palms in the arid desert.

Wildlife including sheep, goats, bobcats, etc, also can be spotted at the oasis.

Entry to the reserve is free and it has many hiking trails plus offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are also other hiking areas close to Coachella Valley Preserve including Indian Canyons where you can hike through slot canyons. 

Death Valley National Park – 1 Day

Comprising of areas of the Mojave desert and the Great Basin desert, Death Valley is vastly different than Joshua Tree National Park.

For the most part, Death Valley is devoid of vegetation and is home to a variety of geological formations including the badlands, sand dunes, and the famous salt flats.

Death Valley also has the distinction of being the lowest point in North America and is also one of the hottest and driest places in the country.

No trip to Death Valley National Park is complete without visiting the Badwater Basin salt flats.

The salt flats, at 282 feet below sea level, are the lowest place in North America.

Death Valley National Park has many scenic drives that are perfect for exploring around the park.

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes are good for taking a stroll, exploring the desert plants, viewing animal tracks, and sunrise/sunset photography.

The park has many interesting geological formations.

Death Valley also has a dark night sky and is great for stargazing and photographing the Milky Way.

Read our post on 14 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park for more information.

We know you are planning to roadtrip California, but we can’t talk about Death Valley without mentioning Las Vegas.

Las Vegas is also a great city to begin your road trip to California.

The distance between Vegas and Death Valley is just over 2 hours and the route is quite scenic.

In fact, it is one of our favorite road trips from Las Vegas.

You can see the Sin City and then go on a road trip through California – an epic Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco trip, if you will!

Or you can also go on a memorable Las Vegas Grand Canyon road trip from California.

For Las Vegas travel inspiration, read our post on 52 Best Things to do in Las Vegas .

Stretch 3: Up Through The Sierra Nevada – 4 Days

After seeing Death Valley, take a road trip on California’s Scenic Highway 395.

This road trip is scenic whether you do it from north to south or like we recommend here, from south to north.

The best time to see the aspens turn yellow here is in fall.

The total distance from Death Valley to your final destination of Yosemite is 4 hours when the Lee Vining road to Yosemite is open in the summer.

However, we recommend keeping aside 4 days for this road trip as it has some of the most underrated road trip destinations in California including the Manzanar National Historic Site, Alabama Hills, Ancient Bristlecone pine forest, Bodie Ghost Town, etc.

For more information on these Route 395 stops, see this article .

For the purposes of this itinerary, we focus on the popular attractions of Mammoth Lakes, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe. 

Route 395 will take you high up into the Sierra Nevada mountains, known for their spectacular beauty.

The Sierra Nevadas are home to many national and state parks including the mighty Yosemite and crystal clear high mountain lakes.

For the rest of your Californian road trip, you will be exploring the High Sierras and its many breathtaking attractions.

This is a welcome respite after the desert landscapes of Death Valley and Joshua Tree and depending on when you visit you will be able to see beautiful meadows, wildflowers, fall foliage, and even snow!

Mammoth Lakes And Mono Lake – 1 Day

Contrary to their name, Mammoth Lakes is not a lake but a winter ski town in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Mammoth Mountain is the main winter skiing area with a variety of ski runs.

In summer, it is a favorite with mountain bikers and hikers.

The town does have several beautiful lakes that are accessible only in the summer but none of them are named Mammoth.

The area has beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers in spring and natural hot springs for some R&R.

In one day, we recommend taking the roughly one hour drive around the Lakes Basin and visiting all the lakes.

You can hike, picnic, kayak, and fish in whichever lake you like.

Or maybe just hang up a hammock and read a book by the lake.

Nearby Mono Lake is a saltwater lake surrounded by unique towering limestone formations called the tufa.

The lake visitor center has great information about the formation of the lake and the tufa while the short South Tufa trail is great for exploring the surrounding area.

The trail takes you along the lakeshore and among the tufas.

We suggest stopping here for an hour or so; Mono Lake accepts National Park Pass for entry.

On the way from Mammoth Lakes to Mono Lake, you will pass by June Lake and Devils Postpile Monument.

June Lake Loop Road is a great place to see the fall colors while the Devils Postpile National Monument is a unique geological formation of basalt columns.

Rainbow Falls, a 31m plunging waterfall, is another popular attraction of the monument.

Past Mono Lake, take the Lee Vining Road into Yosemite.

The official name of the road is Tioga Pass Road and it is closed in winter and spring (usually November to May) due to snow.

In that case, you can’t really visit Yosemite from the eastern side.

To know alternative routes in winter, check here . 

Yosemite National Park – 2 Days

Best known for its giant sequoia trees, bald granite cliffs, and spectacular waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yosemite along with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park is known as the ‘Big Three’ and receives over 4 million visitors each year.

Yosemite is a must-stop on any Ca road trip itinerary.

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is from the summer to fall when Tioga Pass Road is open.

We suggest spending 2 days in Yosemite National Park to hike, drive along scenic roads, and see the major attractions. 

On your first day, start by taking a Yosemite Valley Tour.

The Yosemite Valley is surrounded by the bald granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome.

Most of the waterfalls including Yosemite Falls are also located in the valley.

The Valley is also where most of the park services including accommodations, shuttle buses, etc are located.

The Valley has hiking trails for all difficulty levels that lead to stunning views of Yosemite.

Lower Yosemite Falls hike is a short and easy trail that goes to the base of the falls.

Touring the Yosemite Valley via the free shuttle bus is the easiest way to see the national park.

However, if you are visiting in summer (especially long weekends) it can get very crowded – so plan to start early in the morning.

The Valley Visitor Center has great information and exhibits about the history and geology of Yosemite, plus it is a good place to get souvenirs, postcards, and magnets.

The aptly-named Mirror Lake reflects Half Dome peak and is beautiful to visit.

However, it dries up towards the end of summer and is best seen in spring/summer. 

Another must in the Valley if you’re visiting in summer is Glacier Point.

Located along the valley rim, it can be reached only by car or private tour.

The views from Glacier Point are stellar. It is also the base for many of Yosemite’s rim hikes.

We suggest spending one day exploring the valley. Yosemite also offers paid guided tours if you prefer them.

On the next day, you can go up the Tioga Pass road if it is clear of snow.

This is your chance to experience Yosemite devoid of the crowds.

The shuttle bus will take you up the Tioga Pass road to Tuolumne Meadows.

To see Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, visit the Mariposa Grove.

This area is also accessible by the park shuttle.

End your day by visiting Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village.

Photographer Ansel Adams’s stunning black and white photos of Yosemite are a great reminder of how Yosemite looked over half a century ago.

Lake Tahoe And Emerald Bay – 1 Day

If you continue along Route 395 from Yosemite, you will reach lake Tahoe.

Note: Route 395 itself does not reach Lake Tahoe, so you will be following 207 from the Nevada side. 

The deep blue water of Lake Tahoe surrounded by snow-clad mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevadas is one of California’s iconic images.

Located on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is a popular travel destination for Californians throughout the year.

In winter it is popular for snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.

Summer in Lake Tahoe is made for biking and camping.

In fall, the area around Lake Tahoe comes alive with spectacular fall foliage and is one of the top fall drives in the country .

South Lake Tahoe or the California side is best for enjoying the outdoors and nature with family while the Nevada side has lots of casinos and is more touristy.

Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe (CC 2.0 – Christian Abend )

The drive around Lake Tahoe is 72 miles long and takes about three hours.

It is highly scenic and one of the best road trips in California.

Much of the shoreline of Lake Tahoe is public and the views of the lake from the drive are stunning.

The lake looks a pretty shade of blue during the day and taking a beautiful picture of the water is a highlight of your visit.

An essential stop along the drive is the Emerald Bay State Park.

The drive here is spectacular and the views of the turquoise lake are lovely.

There are many other ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe.

You can take a helicopter tour or enjoy watersports on the lake.

The Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are an absolute delight for outdoor and nature lovers.

What you will see in these 4 days is just the tip of the iceberg.

The High Sierras have many beautiful alpine valleys, lakes, ghost towns, waterfalls, and hiking trails worth exploring.

If you can spend more time in the Sierra Nevada, then here are some other must attractions:

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 

These are the two other national parks located in the High Sierras.

The giant sequoias surround you as you drive the park roads creating a surreal and unique experience.

The twisting and turning roads here are not for the faint-hearted (hint: carry some Dramamine!).

Both national parks have great hiking trails and lots of wildlife.

John Muir Trail

While it is not possible to hike in a short time, John Muir Trail deserves a special mention.

This is a long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada and passes through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks.

It is as renowned as the Appalachian or the Pacific Crest Trail. 

Bodie Ghost Town

The old mining ghost town of Bodie is an hour away from Mammoth Lakes.

Preserved as a state park, the town is full of historic saloons and deserted buildings.

While Sacramento is not in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, the city is on the way while returning to San Francisco from Lake Tahoe and makes for a great addition to our California road trip itinerary recommendations.

One of the top attractions in Sacramento is the California State Railroad Museum.

Stretch 4: Along The Wild North Coast

There are many things to do in Northern California including national parks, scenic drives, beautiful coastal towns, and more.

You will need another 5 days minimum to fully explore the Northern part of the state.

Hence, we do not recommend covering the North Coast if you are following this California Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days – you simply won’t have time.

The best way to explore this region is to plan a separate road trip in the northern part of the state, the details of which you can read here in our post, Ultimate Northern California road trip itinerary .

California’s North Coast is less visited, unspoiled, and partially unexplored compared to the famous central Coast and the crowded southern coast.

The prehistoric coastal redwood trees grow in groves along the road all the way up to Oregon.

Hwy 1 ends at Leggett where it joins Hwy 101.

While the road follows the coast, for the most part, it turns inward in the area of the Lost Coast.

The remote Lost Coast as the name suggests is devoid of major highways and remains the ultimate adventure for a 10 day trip to California.

However, the coast is not the only unique thing about Northern California.

The northern part of the state is also home to geothermal activity.

You can climb lava tunnels at Lava Beds National Monument and see volcanic craters, domes, mud pools, etc at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Here are a few attractions of the region:

Redwoods National and State Park

The Redwoods National and State Parks were created to preserve the old-growth redwood forests.

The Redwoods are the tallest living trees on Earth and also among the oldest.

The National Park and state parks are also home to a number of endangered animals including spotted owl, species of sea lions, etc.

The unique environment of the dense redwood forests by the coast has resulted in the park being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Seeing the Redwoods covered in fog during winter or spring is a surreal experience.

Point Reyes

Point Reyes National Seashore, located in Marin County, preserves a large swath of northern California’s coastal wilderness.

Most popular attractions at Point Reyes include Alamere Falls on Wildcat Beach and Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Other attractions include the endangered tule elk herd that can be seen around Tomales Point, Native American redwood houses, earthquake trail, and dramatic cliffside beaches.

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is an over 30 miles long scenic highway that passes through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park and its mighty coastal redwood trees.

Roadside attractions include tunnels cut into redwood trees, giant groves, and unique roadside attractions like a house created from a single redwood log and a Redwood RV.

We suggest hiking in the Redwood groves to experience the truly gigantic trees.

The quaint seaside town of Mendocino is quite different from the coastal towns on the Central Coast.

It reminded me of Maine and the coastal upper East coast due to its Victorian mansions painted in pretty pastel colors.

The town is a historical landmark and very pretty to wander and explore.

Nearby Mendocino Headlands State Park and Russian Gulch State Park are worth a visit.

Nearby Fort Bragg is no fort but a lumber town on the North Coast.

The famous ‘Glass Beach’ of which I’m sure you have seen pics floating around on social media is in Fort Bragg.

The beach is a part of MacKerricher State Park, a state park with amazing views of the undeveloped headlands, beaches, and tide pools.

Another popular attraction in Fort Bragg is the Skunk Train – a railroad built to haul timber logs from the redwood forests.

Other attractions on the North Coast include the pretty Victorian towns of Ferndale and Eureka, Del Norte Redwood State Park, and the seaport community of Crescent City.

More 10 Day California itinerary ideas for slow travelers

You can use our California road trip planner to customize your itinerary based on your interests. 

If you can only spend 10 days in California, then seeing all the above attractions can be overwhelming; here are a few suggestions for those who like slow travel.

California coast road trip itinerary

One great option is to go on a 10 day pacific coast highway trip or 10 day west coast road trip.

That way you can spend more time in the cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles while seeing Big Sur at a leisurely pace. 

On this San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip in 10 days, you can tour the lighthouses, hike the trails, picnic on the beach, visit the wineries of the Central Coast, and enjoy nature – seriously the best road trip in California. 

You can even do the San Francisco to San Diego road trip in 10 days.

In that case, we would recommend keeping aside 2 days each for the 3 major cities and spending the rest of the time in the Big Sur region. 

This San Francisco 10 days trip lets you enjoy the beauty of the coast while visiting the Sierra Nevadas and the desert later.

California National Parks itinerary

California has 9 national parks – all of them are unique and make for an exciting California National park road trip. 

You can visit either the most popular ones or all of them, depending on how much time you want to spend in each park. 

We would suggest starting from Los Angeles, then seeing Joshua Tree and Death Valley before visiting Kings Canyon and Sequoia. 

Then see the beautiful Yosemite Valley. From Yosemite, head north to Lassen and then finally see Redwoods parks before returning to San Francisco. 

You can also see Pinnacles and Channel Islands if you have the time, to complete the national parks in California road trip. 

You can also use this route for creating your own California RV trip itinerary, since most national parks have RV campgrounds. 

Northern California road trip itinerary

Another great option for those who like slow travel is to plan a Northern California itinerary for 10 days. 

Start your road trip from San Francisco and drive along the less visited North Coast and see the majestic redwood trees. 

Drive along the Redwoods Scenic Byway before turning towards the mountains and exploring the caves at Lava Tubes National Monument. 

Visit Mount Shasta on your way to Lassen Volcanic National Park and end your trip in Sacramento, a couple of hours away from San Francisco. 

For more information on how to plan a California road trip focusing on the northern part of the state, read our in-depth post on Northern California road trip .

If you have less time: California itinerary 7 days

If you can’t spare 10 days, then we also have suggestions for 7 day California road trip routes. 

With only 7 days in california, we would recommend focusing on one region and exploring it at a leisurely pace. 

Of course, you can opt for a 7 day southern California itinerary or a 7 day California coast road trip along the PCH, but you can also consider some unique road trip ideas in California which explore its most popular attractions. 

Here are our favorites if you want to see the best of California in a week:

7 day road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite

If you are wondering how to spend a week in California but still see the most popular attractions, then this itinerary is for you. 

Start your road trip in San Francisco, see the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Mission District, Fisherman’s Wharf etc in two days. 

Then spend a day in Napa Valley and nearby Calistoga before seeing Sacramento.

In Sacramento, see the state capitol and the railroad museum then make your way to Yosemite National Park. 

Take a tour of the Yosemite Valley and see the famous El Capitan as well as the many waterfalls.

Enjoy the panoramic view from the Tunnel View Outlook. 

Then depending on the season, visit the Tuolumne Meadows area.

Return to San Francisco to complete 7 day road trip in California.

North California coast road trip

This California 1 week itinerary is perfect for slow travel. 

Land in San Francisco and take a day or two to explore it’s many attractions.

Then rent a car and drive north. 

Part of this road trip is on the Pacific Coast Highway 1 till Legett, after which you will be driving along the famous Redwood scenic byway. 

For your first stop, explore the beautiful Point Reyes.

See the lighthouse and the shipwreck, then eat oysters in Tomales Bay. 

Drive along the Avenue of the Giants and pass through the Redwood tunnels. 

Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and visit the glass beach at Fort Bragg, then last stop at Eureka or Crescent City to finish the California coast 7 day itinerary.

7 Day Southern California trip itinerary

For this ca road trip planner, begin your trip with a day or two in San Diego or Los Angeles and then wind your way around Southern California’s desert attractions. 

See famous Joshua Tree and Palm Springs.

Enjoy the fantastic landscape of the Mojave desert and drink a delicious date shake.

See the sculptures in Borrego Springs. 

Then visit Anaheim and enjoy the theme parks.

There are also many things to do in Anaheim besides Disney. 

7 Day California Coast Road Trip

This is one of the most popular california driving holidays itineraries.

Follow this California road trip itinerary 7 days along the world famous Pacific Coast Highway. 

See the major cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Explore the charming mountain side towns of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. Learn to surf and spot the elephant seals. 

Spend some time hiking and enjoying the wild, rugged vibe of Big Sur.

Take a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse and hike down to Keyhole Rock. Go whale watching. 

If you have more time: California road trip itinerary 14 days

This two week california driving itinerary is perfect for long summer vacations, when most parts of the state including the High Sierras are completely accessible. 

Just use our main California trip planner, but add in all optional ideas including San Diego and the beautiful northern coast. 

Then see the Lassen Volcanic National Park area and visit the beautiful Burney Falls from Redding.

Spend some time in Mount Shasta and head back to San Francisco to complete California 2 week itinerary.

We hope you liked our California road trip blog.

Now you have everything ready to plan your perfect California trip itinerary, so make the most of it.

Did we miss any hidden gems in the Golden State?

Which part of the road trip did you enjoy the most? Let us know in the comments!

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Chicago to California Road Trip: Get your kicks on Route 66

Whether you want to enjoy spectacular views, revel in natural attractions or experience urban thrills, a Chicago to California road trip is an excellent fit.

This Chicago to California road trip offers a wide range of attractions, scenic views, and experiences, fitting all itinerary needs. You will pass through bustling metropolises and long stretches of remote areas along the route. The road trip crosses eight states and three time zones, featuring various stopovers along the way.

1. Chicago 2. St. Louis, MO 3. Oklahoma City, OK 4. Amarillo, TX 5. Santa Fe, NM 6. Santa Monica, CA

Info at a glance

• A 2-week trip
• Type of route: Family
• 6 stops along the route
• 2,056 miles of driving
• Explore the diverse arts scene at the various art exhibits in Chicago.
• Visit the Garden Arch architectural masterpiece and enjoy spectacular views of St. Louis.
• Enjoy a nature tour at Oklahoma city’s Myriad Gardens.
• Relive Texas’ history at Amarillo museums.
• Immerse yourself in music culture at the Santa Fe Opera.

Getting to the start

The road trip starts in Chicago , Illinois. If you are coming from a different part of the country, you can opt for a flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport . Alternatively, you can drive in via I-94 from the north or south or I-55 from the west. Also, you can consider a train trip via Amtrak, which has frequent departures to Chicago from various locations in the country.

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When to Visit

The best time to embark on a Chicago to California road trip is between late spring and early summer. Therefore, consider scheduling your road trip between April and June if you want to enjoy fun-filled outdoor activities. Also, pack for various weather conditions, with blankets and fleece jackets for chilly nights, to sunscreen, shorts and T-shirts for warmer afternoons.

Driving tips

Speed limits along the road trip route vary as you will be driving on both major highways and other roads throughout the route. However, if you wish to make up time during the trip, you can undoubtedly utilize the Interstate. There are no tolls along the route.

What to know about the route

This 1,250-mile road trip from Chicago to California would take 40 hours if you were to have a direct trip. However, the direct journey will be tiring and short of attractions and thrilling travel experiences. The entire route we have chosen is along the historic Route 66, but on parts that are otherwise not passable, you will use I-40. You will drive southwest along Route 66 to St. Louis, then proceed to Oklahoma City across the state. After that, you will drive west to Amarillo in Texas before heading to Santa Fe along Route 66 with stretches of I-40. When your time in Santa Fe is done, proceed to the final stop, Santa Monica. An SUV is ideal for this road trip, as it has plenty of cargo and passenger space.

Chicago offers everything you might desire in an international city. From unique architecture to excellent cuisine, great outdoor destinations and attractions. The city boasts significant contributions to US history, art, music, culture, sports and innovation. Also, Chicago’s location on Lake Michigan and diverse population give you a true city experience.

Points of interest

Regardless of your art taste, you will always find something intriguing in Chicago’s art scene. Spend a few hours at the Art Institute of Chicago for world-class art exhibitions from renowned artists. Also, if you are a history buff, then Chicago has you covered. Visit the Field Museum to explore natural history or learn more about the city at Chicago History Museum.

Where to eat, drink and sleep

Chicago features a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of dining options, serving cuisines from all over the world. To experience the famous deep-dish pizza, head to Bartoli’s Pizzeria, a family-run restaurant. You can also savor flavors from various regions in the world at foodie neighborhoods in the city, including Chinatown, Little Italy and Greektown.

Sixt Insider Tip

Sports are a big deal in Chicago, and the city is home to major professional teams, including the Cubs, Bulls and Bears. Catching a home game during your visit is a great way to experience Chicago’s electric sports atmosphere.

From Chicago to St. Louis (297 miles)

From the Windy City, proceed southwest along Route 66 (I-55) to St. Louis. This scenic route highlights the Midwestern charm, featuring cities and small towns along the way. You can stop in Springfield, Illinois, to grab a bite to eat or refill your gas tank as you enjoy the Greek architecture in the city.

St. Louis, MO

With a blend of Midwestern charm and urban bustle, St. Louis is worth a stopover. The city features a broad array of neighborhoods, from diverse culinary hotspots to historic architecture and a range of attractions. Boasting a list of dynamic museums, lovely gardens and parks, sporting events, and fun-filled outdoor activities, St. Louis has something for everybody.

The Gateway Arch will offer you breathtaking views of the River City from its observation platform about 625 feet in the air. Die-hard baseball fans should not miss a visit to Busch Stadium, home of the award-winning St. Louis Cardinals, to enjoy the sports spirit in the city. The Delmar Loop, one of the best streets in the city, will provide you with entertainment options, unique boutiques and art galleries.

From St. Louis-style barbeque to premium pub cuisine and fresh Bosnian and Italian specials, there is plenty to savor in the city. Walk into Bogart’s Smokehouse for tantalizing St. Louis-style ribs or Charlie Gitto’s for Italian fare. If you want to spend a night in St. Louis, consider checking in at Four Seasons Hotel.

A stop in St. Louis is not complete without visiting the spectacular Forest Park, the largest city park in the country. This unique park is also home to the St. Louis Zoo and a few museums, offering you a lot to explore.

From St. Louis to Oklahoma City (499 miles)

Proceed on the historic Route 66 (I-44 W) to the next stop, Oklahoma City. As you head west, states get more expansive, and the landscapes seem to stretch forever. However, you can make stopovers along the route, like in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for refreshments and break the monotony.

Oklahoma City, OK

Although Oklahoma City is not often included in most travelers’ itineraries, it is worth a stop. The city has a lot to offer, including hidden trails and other gems. From educational attractions to a growing art scene, an exciting cowboy vibe, and fantastic food, a stopover in the city is sure to be worth it.

Paseo Arts District is a haven for art enthusiasts, featuring various galleries to explore local artwork. Stockyards City, a few minutes away, will offer you an authentic taste of the Old West. Nature lovers will enjoy touring the Myriad Gardens, a lovely park with a range of plant species and scenic views.

Years of evolution have transformed Oklahoma City’s culinary scene into a unique fabric in which local flavors merge with international cultures. Treat your taste buds with authentic Lebanese cuisine at Nunu’s Mediterranean Café or grab a cocktail at a bar in downtown Oklahoma City. For overnight stays, book a room at Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel.

Oklahoma City is home to some of the most spectacular sunsets in the country. Due to its flat topography, you can catch a glimpse of the stunning sunsets regardless of where you are in the city. To experience the best sunset views, visit one of the city’s many lakes in the evening where you can see amazing reflections of the sun.

From Oklahoma City to Amarillo (260 miles)

After you are done in Oklahoma City, proceed further along Route 66 (I-40 W) into Texas. This journey across states features scenic desert views and a few towns along the way. You can briefly stop in Clinton to check out the iconic Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. Continue until you reach Amarillo in Texas.

Amarillo, TX

This quaint, modest city in the High Plains of West Texas has some surprises for travelers and some of the finest attractions and outdoor activities. Amarillo boasts a distinctive fusion of two US eras, with thriving Western ranches and a bustling urban economy, offering an ideal balance of classic and contemporary Texas heritage.

To experience West Texas history and culture, explore the various museums in Amarillo, including the Panhandle Plains Historical Museum and Quarter Horse Museum. If you seek fun and creativity, head to the unique Cadillac Ranch and immerse yourself in graffiti. Amarillo Zoo offers you the opportunity to catch a glimpse of some exotic animals.

For excellent steak, try out Tyler’s, home to some of the best meat platters in the city. Also, you can check out the Golden Light Café, the oldest dining option in the city, for classic American specials. Also, whether you prefer craft beer, wine or cocktails, you will find something fitting your needs at Six Car Pub & Brewery.

Get out of the car and explore the Amarillo Botanical Gardens. The gardens, which cover four acres, include indigenous flora outside, a fragrance garden, and exotic plants within the conservatory, ideal for a day in nature.

From Amarillo to Santa Fe (280 miles)

From Amarillo, head west on Route 66 (I-40 W) and enter New Mexico, where you’ll find the next stop. You’ll pass by the iconic Blue Swallow Motel in Tucumcari and will then take a slight detour north on Highway 285 to Santa Fe. You can enjoy scenic views of New Mexican farm life scattered along the route.

Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest state capital, is among the country’s most historic and intriguing cities. While history is evident in Santa Fe, the city also boasts a vibrant modern and elegant side. Santa Fe is exciting while also being restful and fun, and you’ll find conventional attractions with contemporary twists.

A visit to the Santa Fe Opera offers a unique music experience. This theater features superb music performances and fantastic architecture to relish during the stop. Also, art lovers will be blown away by the Canyon Road Art District, featuring various galleries that exhibit 20th century and contemporary artworks.

Santa Fe’s cuisine, which ranges from authentic Native American and Mexican fare to locally produced specials like green chilis, is a foodie heaven. Check out Second Street Brewery for amazing beer and live music performances. You can also walk into India House to savor South Indian Cuisine.

Loretto Chapel is a must-see during the stay at Santa Fe, as it is a spot where mystery, history and architecture come together. It’s the ideal place to cool down after a thrilling tour of the city while learning about the anonymous man who created the physics-defying spiral stairs.

From Santa Fe to Santa Monica (720 miles)

On the way to the final stop, Santa Monica, you will be driving across Arizona into California. You will take I-25 S to meet back up with I-40 W, which you will continue on, along with some highways, until you reach Barstow, California, where you’ll take I-15 S This stretch is the longest for the road trip; therefore, ensure you start your journey early. There are several small towns and some cities along the way, and you can have a brief stop in Sedona, Arizona, to stretch your legs and grab a bite.

Santa Monica, CA

Santa Monica, California, marks the culmination of the historic Route 66, with Baywatch-style beaches and an amusement park awaiting you at the end of a long journey. The city is an ideal location for travelers owing to its accessibility to the broader Los Angeles area. This laid-back metropolis is all about unwinding and year-round warm weather.

Enjoy lazy afternoons at Santa Monica’s beaches, which cover a 3.5-mile stretch of the spectacular Californian coastline . With such stunning beaches, the city’s sunsets are amazing and worth waiting at the beach for the best views. Shopping fans will adore the city’s 3rd St., where you’ll find premium shopping outlets and boutiques.

Santa Monica boasts a range of dining options, from chic establishments to informal cafés. Consider checking out Lanea for Mexican fare or Fritto Misto for Italian specials. For an overnight in the city, book a room at the Ambrose Hotel.

Santa Monica’s wealth of trails and pleasant weather make it ideal for cycling. Also, downtown Santa Monica features the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, as well as bike-friendly boulevards.

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road trip from chicago to california

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Are you looking for an exciting adventure with scenic vistas and picturesque destinations? Look no further than a road trip from Chicago to California! With the right preparation and planning, this cross-country journey can be an unforgettable experience filled with natural wonders, delicious food, and opportunities to create lasting memories. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your journey from start to finish.

The Best Route to Take for a Road Trip from Chicago to California

When planning your road trip, the first thing to consider is the route you'll take. The most popular route is to head west on Interstate 80, which will take you through the heartland of America and over the Rocky Mountains. This route is well-maintained and offers plenty of rest stops and amenities along the way.

Another option is to take the iconic Route 66, which begins in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles. While this route is less direct and will take you through smaller towns, it is a classic American road trip that offers plenty of photo opportunities and unique experiences.

If you're looking for a more scenic route, consider taking Highway 50, also known as the "Loneliest Road in America." This route will take you through the Great Basin Desert and over the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering stunning views of the landscape. However, be prepared for long stretches of road with few amenities.

For those interested in history, consider taking the California Trail, which follows the path of pioneers who traveled west in the 1800s. This route will take you through historic towns and landmarks, such as Independence Rock and the Donner Memorial State Park. It's a great way to learn about the history of the American West while enjoying a scenic road trip.

Preparing Your Car for the Long Journey Ahead

Before setting out on the road, it's important to ensure your car is road-worthy and ready for the long journey ahead. Schedule a tune-up with a mechanic to check your tire pressure and have any necessary repairs made. It's also important to pack an emergency kit with essentials like a spare tire, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit.

Don't forget to also take care of yourself during the journey, with plenty of rest stops and sleep. Long periods of sitting in a car can be taxing on the body, so take breaks every few hours, stretch your legs, and get some fresh air.

In addition to preparing your car and taking care of yourself, it's also important to plan your route ahead of time. Make sure to research any potential road closures or construction, and have alternate routes in mind. It's also a good idea to plan for rest stops and meal breaks, so you don't find yourself driving for hours without a break. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.

Places to Stop Along the Way: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems

One of the best parts of a road trip is discovering new and unexpected places along the way. From quirky roadside attractions to breathtaking natural wonders, there is plenty to see and do on the journey. Some of the must-see stops include the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville, Iowa, and the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.

For something a bit more off the beaten path, consider visiting the National Museum of Roller Skating in Lincoln, Nebraska, or taking a detour to the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. The possibilities are endless!

Another hidden gem to consider visiting is the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri. This park offers stunning views of the Ozark Mountains and crystal-clear rivers perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. You can also explore the park's many caves and hiking trails, making it a great stop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Exploring the Great Outdoors: National Parks and Scenic Drives

The road trip from Chicago to California offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors and soak in the natural beauty of America. Some of the must-see stops include the Badlands National Park in South Dakota, which offers stunning geological formations, and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, home to Old Faithful and a wealth of wildlife.

Along the way, be sure to take in the scenic drives like the Pacific Coast Highway and the Million Dollar Highway. These roads offer breathtaking views and plenty of photo opportunities.

Foodie Finds: Local Eats and Diners Worth Checking Out

No road trip is complete without trying the local cuisine and finding hidden gems along the way. From classic diners to farm-to-table restaurants, there is something for every palate. Make a stop at the iconic Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois, or try the famous cheese curds in Wisconsin.

Other notable stops include the Ozark Cafe in Jasper, Arkansas, famous for their pies, and the Reno Club in Portland, Oregon, where you can find the best burgers and beer in town. Don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations!

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, head to the small town of Marfa, Texas, and visit the Food Shark. This food truck serves up delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and has been featured in numerous food publications.

For seafood lovers, a visit to the Lobster Pound in Wells, Maine, is a must. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh lobster and other seafood for over 50 years.

Budgeting for Your Road Trip: Tips for Saving Money on Gas, Accommodations, and Activities

A road trip can be a budget-friendly way to travel, with plenty of options for saving money along the way. Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, or using apps like GasBuddy to find the best deals on gas. Many attractions offer student discounts or free admission on certain days, so it's worth researching ahead of time.

Another option is to cook your own meals instead of eating out, which can save money and offer a chance to bond over a shared meal. With a bit of planning, a road trip can be a cost-effective way to travel and see the country.

When planning your road trip, it's important to consider the time of year you'll be traveling. Peak travel seasons can mean higher prices for gas, accommodations, and activities. Consider traveling during the off-season or shoulder season to save money and avoid crowds.

Additionally, don't forget to factor in unexpected expenses, such as car repairs or medical emergencies. It's a good idea to have a contingency fund set aside for these situations, so you don't have to dip into your travel budget.

Capturing Memories: Photography Tips and Instagram-Worthy Spots

The road trip from Chicago to California is filled with photo opportunities, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Pack your camera and take advantage of the natural light and stunning backdrops. Research Instagram-worthy locations ahead of time and make a list of must-see spots.

The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and Joshua Tree National Park are two of the most Instagrammed locations along the route. Whether you're a professional photographer or just snapping photos on your smartphone, don't miss the chance to capture memories along the way!

Another great spot for photography along the route is the Grand Canyon. The vastness of the canyon and the changing colors of the rocks make for stunning photos at any time of day. Consider taking a helicopter tour for a unique perspective and photo opportunity.

If you're looking for a more urban setting, stop in Las Vegas for some colorful and vibrant shots. The neon lights and iconic hotels on the strip provide endless photo opportunities.

Safety First: Essential Items to Pack and Road Trip Etiquette

While a road trip can be an exciting adventure, it's important to prioritize safety and be prepared for emergencies. Make sure to pack a first aid kit, flashlight, and basic tools in case of car trouble or other mishaps.

It's also important to follow road trip etiquette and be respectful of other drivers and the environment. Leave no trace when camping or hiking, and be mindful of noise levels in shared spaces. Follow the rules of the road and don't take unnecessary risks while driving.

In addition to packing essential safety items, it's also a good idea to have a plan in case of an emergency. Make sure to have a fully charged phone and a list of emergency contacts. It's also helpful to have a map or GPS device in case you get lost or need to find an alternate route.

Another important aspect of road trip safety is taking breaks and staying alert while driving. Plan to stop every few hours to stretch your legs and take a break from driving. If you feel tired or drowsy, switch drivers or take a nap before continuing on the road.

Hitting the Beaches: Coastal Towns and Beaches to Visit in California

The final stretch of the road trip brings you to California's iconic coastline, with its beautiful beaches and charming coastal towns. Make a stop in Santa Barbara, known for its Spanish-style architecture and picturesque beaches, or head to Laguna Beach for its art scene and stunning natural landscapes.

Other must-visit beaches include Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, with its famous purple sands, and Venice Beach in Los Angeles, known for its eclectic boardwalk and vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen and hit the waves!

If you're looking for a quieter beach experience, consider visiting the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This charming town boasts a white sand beach and a quaint downtown area filled with art galleries and boutique shops. Another hidden gem is the town of Mendocino, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a rugged coastline perfect for hiking.

For those interested in surfing, make sure to check out Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City USA." This beach town is home to the International Surfing Museum and hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year. No matter which beach you choose to visit, California's coastline is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Making the Most of Your Time in California: Top Cities, Landmarks, and Activities to Experience

Finally, take some time to explore California's top cities and landmarks, from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to Disneyland in Anaheim. Other must-visit destinations include Hollywood, with its famous Walk of Fame and movie studios, and the iconic Beverly Hills, home to high-end shopping and dining.

For those looking for outdoor adventures, consider hiking in Yosemite National Park or exploring the vineyards in Napa Valley. Whatever your interests, California has something for everyone.

If you're a fan of the beach, California has some of the best in the world. Head to Santa Monica for a classic beach experience, complete with a pier and amusement park. Or, for a more secluded beach day, check out Laguna Beach or La Jolla Cove.

Foodies will also love California's diverse culinary scene. From the famous In-N-Out Burger to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's no shortage of delicious options. Don't forget to try some of the state's signature dishes, like fish tacos and avocado toast.

Saying Goodbye to the Open Road: Tips for Returning Home After an Epic Road Trip

After an epic road trip, it can be hard to say goodbye to the open road and return to reality. To make the transition easier, take time to reflect on your journey and the memories you made along the way. Print out your favorite photos and create a scrapbook or journal to remember your adventure.

Finally, don't forget to take care of yourself as you return home. Catch up on rest, unpack slowly, and ease back into your regular routine. But don't forget the lessons learned on the road, and keep the spirit of adventure alive for your next journey.

One of the best ways to keep the memories of your road trip alive is to share your experiences with others. Whether it's through social media, a blog, or simply telling stories to friends and family, sharing your adventures can help you relive the excitement and keep the spirit of the trip alive. You may even inspire others to embark on their own epic road trip.

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California To Chicago Road Trip: Top 27 Tips

Traveling from California to Chicago is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 2,140 miles of the road trip from California to Chicago takes around 31 hours of driving without stops.

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

Table of Contents

9 Best Hotels On The Way From California To Chicago

On the way from California to Chicago, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top nine hotels on the California – Chicago route!

• Best Western Plus Hill House: Best Western Plus Hill House is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the road trip from California to Chicago. Driving from California to Best Western Plus Hill House might take around one hour and 56 mins . This pet-friendly hotel is close to popular attractions in Bakersfield, including Rabobank Arena. It features a variety of thoughtful amenities, such as a complimentary continental breakfast, and is a short drive to many area points of interest. Check the Best Western Plus Hill House, one of the best Bakersfield, California hotels on TripAdvisor and Booking.com , for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Park MGM Las Vegas: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Chicago from California is Park MGM Las Vegas. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the hotel is 389 miles away from California, and it would take 6 hours and 5 mins to drive. So instead, chef Roy Choi, the creator of LA’s famous street food spot Kogi, has teamed up with Bavette to bring the best of both worlds to the desert – a poolside restaurant that conjures the South of France and a bodega-style bar and eatery that brings the best of LA’s food scene to the desert. If you want to learn more about the Park MGM Las Vegas, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Best Western Plus Abbey Inn: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Best Western Plus Abbey Inn. Best Western Plus Abbey Inn is located in St. George, Utah, and it’s 511 miles away from California. You can arrive there in 7 hours and 50 mins of non-stop driving. The Abbey Inn offers modern amenities and thoughtful design, making it stand out among other Saint George, UT hotels. They also have an in-house fitness room so that you can keep up your workout routine while on the road. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Plus Abbey Inn for more information.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction: If you are taking the road trip from California to Chicago, Grand Junction, Colorado is must have a place you should visit. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction is one of the best hotels in town. It is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction, 900 miles from California, and it would take 13 hours and 18 mins to drive. Finding an ideal family-friendly hotel in Grand Junction doesn’t have to be complicated. The property also boasts a pool and complimentary breakfast. Free parking is available if you are driving to La Quinta Grand Junction Hotel. If you need more info about the price and availability of La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• The Oxford Hotel: Our next hotel is The Oxford Hotel, Denver, Colorado. It will take 17 hours, and 2 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from California. The Oxford Hotel is a historic hotel located in the Lower Downtown district of Denver. It features elements of the past combined with modern amenities, providing guests with a comfortable and classic experience. Check The Oxford Hotel on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Oxford Hotel for reviews, prices, and availability.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney: Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from California to Chicago is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Kearney, Nebraska, within 21 hours and 52 mins drive from California. The Wingate By Wyndham Kearney Hotel is a great place to stay if you’re interested in visiting Kearney’s famous landmark. Additionally, as a valued Wyndham Hotel guest, you can enjoy a pool and breakfast on-site. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .
• Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites: Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites. It’s located in Lincoln, Nebraska, and is 1,625 miles from California. You can arrive there within 23 hours and 39 mins of car drive. The business traveler will appreciate a spacious work desk and free internet access in all of our guest rooms. A complimentary hot breakfast is also offered each morning. You can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites if you need further information.
• Magnolia Hotel Omaha: Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Magnolia Hotel Omaha is another hotel where you can stay on California to Chicago road trip. Magnolia Hotel Omaha is 1,676 miles from California and will take one day of non-stop driving. This downtown Omaha hotel offers stylish rooms and suites near many primary corporate headquarters and offices. The hotel also features a lovely quiet courtyard for reading and a beautiful historic building. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Magnolia Hotel Omaha for more information.
• Surety Hotel: As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is the Surety Hotel. Surety Hotel, Des Moines, Iowa, is 1,807 miles from California, and you can arrive there in one day and 2 hours of non-stop driving. The Surety Courtyard in Des Moines is a great place to stay if you’re looking for top-notch service, fantastic design, and a unique Iowa experience. In addition, the courtyard is home to shared bites and live music, so you can relax and connect with friends. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Surety Hotel for more information about the Surety Hotel hotel.

In this part, we explained nine different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from California to Chicago. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take some California to Chicago route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from California to Chicago. We have nine restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

9 Best Restaurants On The Way To Chicago From California

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your California to Chicago road trip. This section lists the nine dining restaurants  on the road trip from California to Chicago. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• 24th Street Cafe: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the road trip from California to Chicago with 24th Street Cafe. 24th Street Cafe is located in Bakersfield, California, 108 miles from California. It would take one hour and 54 mins of driving. So, stop by this restaurant for a delicious meal if you’re in Bakersfield. They have a wide variety of food options that will make your old-fashioned dinner experience great. For more information about 24th Street Cafe, visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of 24th Street Cafe.
• Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Chicago from California is Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas is 393 miles from California and would take 6 hours and 9 mins of driving. Fresco Italiano is a Tuscan-inspired restaurant that specializes in creative Italian cuisine. Their dishes are often based on traditional pasta and sauce combinations, but they also offer a variety of handcrafted flatbreads, steaks, chicken, and seafood dishes. If you want to learn more about Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Cliffside Restaurant: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Cliffside Restaurant. It will take 7 hours and 55 mins of car drive to take 513 miles from California to Cliffside Restaurant, St. George, Utah. The restaurant is on a cliff above the boulevard, overlooking the scenic St. George valley. The restaurant offers a unique experience you will not find elsewhere in southern Utah. For more information, you can check Cliffside Restaurant on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Bin 707 Foodbar: Bin 707 Foodbar deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Grand Junction, Colorado. Bin 707 Foodbar is a full-service Colorado restaurant that specializes in seasonal cuisine. They pride themselves on being environmentally conscious and using local, Colorado, and domestic sources when possible to create a unique, thoughtful experience for their customers time and time again. Bin 707 Foodbar is also a Zero Foodprint member, a 2018 Good Food 100 restaurant, and a James Beard Smart Catch “Leader” for its commitment to sustainability within the industry. Bin 707 Foodbar is 900 miles away from California, and it would take 13 hours and 22 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Bin 707 Foodbar, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Corinne Restaurant: If you enjoy dining, Corinne Restaurant would be an excellent choice in Denver, Colorado. It’s 1,141 miles from California and would take 17 hours and 2 mins of car driving. Corinne Denver is a contemporary restaurant with a comfortable design and a welcoming neighborhood environment perfect for gatherings with friends and colleagues. The menu offers hearty food choices as well as healthy options, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or drink. You can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps to learn more about Corinne Restaurant .
• Alley Rose: Another restaurant we recommend you to visit on the road trip from California to Chicago is Alley Rose, Kearney, Nebraska. It will take 21 hours and 54 mins of driving to reach Alley Rose from California. Alley Rose is a locally-owned bar and restaurant with an extensive menu. It’s located in the downtown area of Kearney, close to the railroad tracks. You can check TripAdvisor or Google Maps restaurant pages for more information about Alley Rose.
• The Green Gateau: Ranked seventh on our list, The Green Gateau appeals to those who want to turn their Chicago vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, 1,621 miles away from California, and it’ll take 23 hours and 37 mins to drive. The food at the restaurant is fresh, vibrant, and on-trend. The restaurant offers weekly specials for all three meals-trying and refining dishes, adjusting seasonings and portion prices, and it never stops evolving. If you want to learn more about The Green Gateau, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• M’s Pub: Corinne Restaurant is an excellent restaurant that is 1,677 miles away from California. Corinne Restaurant is located in Denver, Colorado, and you can reach there after one day of car driving. M’s Pub is a popular spot for locals and tourists, thanks to its timeless décor, casual atmosphere, and friendly service. The menu has something for everyone, ensuring diners always find something they enjoy. If you want to discover the menu and more information about M’s Pub, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Centro Restaurant: Eating is a serious business. Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who take this job seriously is the Centro Restaurant, Des Moines, Iowa. It is 2,055 miles from California and would take around one day and 6 hours of car driving. Centro’s delicious Italian-inspired food is expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and a lively, casual yet upscale atmosphere that makes it perfect for dining with friends, family, clients, and business associates. You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of Centro Restaurant for detailed information.

This section lists our nine restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from California to Chicago. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 2,140 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 Chicago 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 California to Chicago. Keep reading.

9 Places To Visit On The Way From California To Chicago

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

• Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your California to Chicago road trip. Located in Bakersfield, California, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is 108 miles away from California, and it would take one hour and 54 mins to drive. We enjoyed the live music while dining at this restaurant. The ambiance was great, and the service was excellent. It is a very family-friendly place too, with lots of memorabilia and art to enjoy. If you want to learn more about Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Clark County Heritage Museum: Clark County Heritage Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the destinations we recommend you to stop by on California to Chicago route. It’s 404 miles from California, and it’ll take about 6 hours and 17 mins to drive. The museum is a 30-acre site that features exhibits on southern Nevada from pre-historic to modern times. The museum also has restored historic buildings that depict daily life from different decades in Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, and Goldfield. I enjoyed learning about Las Vegas in the early years and all of the history associated with it. This place is worth a visit for anyone interested in southern Nevada history. If you want to learn more about Clark County Heritage Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Red Hills Desert Garden: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from California to Chicago is St. George, Utah. And if you visit St. George, Utah, we suggest you visit Red Hills Desert Garden. You can arrive at Red Hills Desert Garden after 7 hours and 55 mins of driving. The park is worth a stop, whether you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix or an opportunity to wake up the pathways. It’s free, peaceful and close to downtown. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Red Hills Desert Garden for more information.
• Downtown Grand Junction: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Downtown Grand Junction, Colorado, on the road trip from California to Chicago. Downtown Grand Junction is 899 miles from California, and you can arrive there after the 13 hours and 21 mins of drive. Downtown is home to dozens of businesses with a local focus that offers a variety of products and services. In addition, there are public art, fountains, and historic buildings – as well as tantalizing local cuisine, unique gifts, and relaxing family fun. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Downtown Grand Junction before going there.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: Located in Denver, Colorado, Denver Botanic Gardens ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the Chicago road trip. You must take 17 hours and 5 mins of driving to arrive at Denver Botanic Gardens. The Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street has a diverse collection of gardens and plants worldwide. The gardens span more than 24 acres and include representations of different climates and regions. If you want to learn more about Denver Botanic Gardens, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Great Platte River Road Archway Monument: Another attraction you can visit on a trip from California to Chicago is the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, Kearney, Nebraska. Great Platte River Road Archway Monument is 1,497 miles from California, and it would take 21 hours and 53 mins to drive. So instead, visit the Archway in Kearney, Nebraska, and learn about the epic adventure of those who followed the Great Platte River Road and helped to build America. This family-friendly historical exhibit tells the story of pioneers who traveled westward during the Oregon Trail era and modern-day adventurers who follow in their footsteps. For more information about Great Platte River Road Archway Monument, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .
• Sunken Gardens, Lincoln: You can visit many destinations on your California to Chicago journey. One of these destinations is Sunken Gardens, Lincoln, in Lincoln, Nebraska. You can arrive at Sunken Gardens, Lincoln, after 23 hours and 41 mins of driving. This is an excellent spot for photography! The flowers are beautiful, and there are tons of butterflies flying around. There’s also a hidden statue and a koi pond. If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Sunken Gardens, Lincoln, you can visit Sunken Gardens, Lincoln’s TripAdvisor page , or their website .
• Old Market: As we near the end of our list of the top 9 best places to visit on the road trip from California to Chicago, it would be unfair not to mention Old Market. Old Market locates in Omaha, Nebraska, 1,678 miles from California, and it takes one day to drive from California to get there. Omaha’s historic district is a popular tourist destination where visitors can stroll along the cobbled streets and explore the many preserved buildings. In addition, the district contains several notable landmarks, including the Union Pacific Depot and Omaha City Hall. If you want to learn more about Old Market, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Capitol Building, Des Moines: Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the Chicago trip. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Capitol Building, Des Moines is 1,808 miles from California, and it would take one day and 2 hours to drive. The State Capitol is an architectural and artistic showcase, as well as the seat of state government. If you have the time and interest, I recommend taking the free tour to learn more about its history and design. If you want to learn more about Capitol Building, Des Moines, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From California to Chicago

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about California to Chicago drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From California To Chicago?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the road trip takes approximately one day and 7 hours to drive. The distance between California to Chicago is 2,140 miles.
• If you want to make California to Chicago road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be seven days and 17 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the California-Chicago route, you will have to walk for 27 days and 18 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From California To Chicago?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Chicago. Here we list nine of them . For more information about the best places on California to Chicago journey, you can check the 9 Best Places To Visit On The Way From California To Chicago part.

• Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 108 miles / one hour and 54 mins to drive from California | 2,034 miles / one day and 5 hours and of driving to Chicago.
• Clark County Heritage Museum: 404 miles / 6 hours and 17 mins to drive from California | 1,766 miles / one day and 2 hours and of driving to Chicago.
• Red Hills Desert Garden: 514 miles / 7 hours and 55 mins to drive from California | 1,629 miles / 23 hours and 32 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Downtown Grand Junction: 899 miles / 13 hours and 21 mins to drive from California | 1,243 miles / 18 hours and 10 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: 1,142 miles / 17 hours and 5 mins to drive from California | 1,006 miles / 14 hours and 33 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Great Platte River Road Archway Monument: 1,497 miles / 21 hours and 53 mins to drive from California | 645 miles / 9 hours and 27 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Sunken Gardens, Lincoln: 1,623 miles / 23 hours and 41 mins to drive from California | 524 miles / 7 hours and 52 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Old Market: 1,678 miles / one day to drive from California | 468 miles / 7 hours and 2 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Capitol Building, Des Moines: 1,808 miles / one day and 2 hours and to drive from California | 333 miles / 5 hours and 4 mins of driving to Chicago.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From California To Chicago?

There are many excellent hotels during your California to Chicago road trip. We have selected nine hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 9 Best Hotels On The Way To Chicago From California section.

• Best Western Plus Hill House: 110 miles / one hour and 56 mins to drive from California | 2,031 miles / one day and 5 hours and of driving to Chicago.
• Park MGM Las Vegas: 389 miles / 6 hours and 5 mins to drive from California | 1,752 miles / one day and one hour and of driving to Chicago.
• Best Western Plus Abbey Inn: 511 miles / 7 hours and 50 mins to drive from California | 1,630 miles / 23 hours and 29 mins of driving to Chicago.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction: 900 miles / 13 hours and 18 mins to drive from California | 1,242 miles / 18 hours and 3 mins of driving to Chicago.
• The Oxford Hotel: 1,141 miles / 17 hours and 2 mins to drive from California | 1,002 miles / 14 hours and 26 mins of driving to Chicago.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Kearney: 1,494 miles / 21 hours and 52 mins to drive from California | 648 miles / 9 hours and 31 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites: 1,625 miles / 23 hours and 39 mins to drive from California | 517 miles / 7 hours and 41 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Magnolia Hotel Omaha: 1,676 miles / one day to drive from California | 470 miles / 7 hours and 2 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Surety Hotel: 1,807 miles / one day and 2 hours and to drive from California | 334 miles / 5 hours and 5 mins of driving to Chicago.

Where To Eat Between California to Chicago?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your California to Chicago journey, you can consider the nine restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 9 Best Restaurants On The Way From California To Chicago .

• 24th Street Cafe: 108 miles / one hour and 54 mins to drive from California | 2,032 miles / one day and 5 hours of driving to Chicago.
• Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas: 393 miles / 6 hours and 9 mins to drive from California | 1,750 miles / one day and one hour and of driving to Chicago.
• Cliffside Restaurant: 513 miles / 7 hours and 55 mins to drive from California | 1,630 miles / 23 hours and 33 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Bin 707 Foodbar: 900 miles / 13 hours and 22 mins to drive from California | 1,245 miles / 18 hours and 9 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Corinne Restaurant: 1,141 miles / 17 hours and 2 mins to drive from California | 1,004 miles / 14 hours and 29 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Alley Rose: 1,496 miles / 21 hours and 54 mins to drive from California | 649 miles / 9 hours and 33 mins of driving to Chicago.
• The Green Gateau: 1,621 miles / 23 hours and 37 mins to drive from California | 522 miles / 7 hours and 45 mins of driving to Chicago.
• M’s Pub: 1,677 miles / one day to drive from California | 468 miles / 7 hours and 2 mins of driving to Chicago.
• Centro Restaurant: 2,055 miles / one day and 6 hours and to drive from California | 410 miles / 6 hours and 20 mins of driving to Chicago.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from California to Chicago. We have listed nine hotels, nine restaurants, and nine places to visit on the way. 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 California to Chicago as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

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

Video: Chicago Road Trip: Top 10 Things to Do in Chicago

In this video, you can find 10 things to do in Chicago. If you’re planning to visit Chicago, you should check the video.

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14 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

• Experience the unique beauty and wildlife of Santa Catalina Island on a road trip from LA to San Diego. Take a ferry to the island and explore Two Harbors and Avalon, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino.
• Enjoy the surf and vibrant beach town vibes at Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City." Take a surf lesson or explore lively Main Street with its bars, breweries, shops, and cafes.
• Explore the scenic beaches and artistic charm of Laguna Beach. From tide pools at Main Beach to hiking trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, this stop offers breathtaking coastal vistas and a chance to see a natural lake.

Driving the California coast is a quintessential American road trip and is something that everyone should experience at some point in their lifetime! Whether driving the whole coastline or just a section, there are so many beautiful places to stop along the way. California has great scenic road trip options with fantastic stops along the way , and the drive from LA to San Diego is no less.

The drive on a road trip from LA to San Diego is only about 120 miles (roughly 2 hours of driving point to point without traffic). But the best parts of any road trip are the stops along the way, and with multiple beaches and dozens of things to do between LA and San Diego, the California coast will not disappoint.

Although the quickest way between these two cities is to take the I-5, the most scenic option is to take the Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the US, and it becomes even more so if you genuinely know where to stop between San Diego and Los Angeles to enjoy this route.

UPDATE: 2023/11/13 16:42 EST BY SUNIL PURUSHE

Some More Unique Stops Along PCH In Los Angeles And San Diego, California

The route between LA and San Diego and the legendary Pacific Coast Highway has unlimited destinations and attractions that demand attention. There's only one Golden State for a reason, regardless of the time of year. Have fun!

Related: How To Spend 3 Days In LA

Escape To Santa Catalina Island

Two harbors and the city of avalon, with casinos, hiking trails, and wildlife..

For those with plenty of time to enjoy the California coastline, leaving the car behind in Long Beach and catching a ferry over to Santa Catalina Island is an excellent place to start. Among the many things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, visiting the Santa Catalina Islands is a unique but very fulfilling choice. Just one hour away via high-speed ferry, Santa Catalina is one of California's Channel Islands and lies southwest of LA. The resort town of Two Harbors is on the north of the island, and the city of Avalon is in the south, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino. There are hiking trails across the island, and it's known for its wildlife and amazing diving opportunities, making it the perfect first stop on any LA to San Diego road trip.

• Location: Santa Catalina Islands, California 90704
• Major Attractions: Catalina Island Casino , Two Harbors

Enjoy The Longest Pier At Huntington Beach

The best place to learn surfing.

On a drive from LA to San Diego, just 20 minutes further down the coast from Long Beach and about as far north as you can get in Orange Country, is beautiful Huntington Beach. With one of the longest piers on the California Coast, it is the perfect place to catch a West Coast sunset. Known locally as "Surf City," the beach is a perfect place to take a surf lesson, or lively Main Street has many bars, breweries, shops, and cafes to enjoy.

• Location: Huntington Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Huntington Beach Pier , Old World Village

The World Famous And Stunning Laguna Beach

Over 40 miles of trails, spectacular coastal vistas, canyons, and lake barbara..

With some of the most stunning beaches and coastlines along this coastline, Laguna Beach is a must-see beach on any San Diego to LA road trip or the opposite direction along the California Coast. Another significant aspect of Laguna Beach is that it falls in the middle of a route perfect for any California road trip . The town is an eclectic mix of a hippie beach town, boutique shopping, and art galleries. Main Beach has tide pools to explore and a beautiful boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park. The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park has over 40 miles of trails leading to rocky bluffs, coastal vistas, and canyons. Hiking to Barbara's Lake is a unique opportunity to see a natural lake along this coastal drive.

• Location: Laguna Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Heisler Park , Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Related: From Surf To Turf: A Culinary Adventure Through San Diego's Diverse Food Culture

Looking Out For Whales At Dana Point

A beautiful harbor and tours to watch the biggest mammal family on earth..

Dana Point is known as the "Whale Capital of the West," so watch for these majestic animals, whether watching from the harbor or heading further out to sea on a whale-watching tour. The 0.2-mile Bluff Top hiking trail gives visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor, and the harbor itself has many boutique stores, restaurants, and cafés to enjoy a rest after whale-spotting!

• Location: Dana Point, California
• Major Attractions: Dana Point Harbor , Salt Creek Beach

Learning Some History In San Juan Capistrano

Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, along with seeing the oldest buildings in the state..

A visit to San Juan Capistrano involves a little inland detour, but it is one of the most historic destinations in the region, and it's a nice way to break up the beach stops along this coastal drive. Downtown is filled with Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, and one of the highlights is seeing the San Juan Capistrano Mission, one of the oldest buildings in the state. For those staying overnight here, there are plenty of taquerias and old-timey Western bars to enjoy.

• Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
• Major Attractions: Mission San Juan Capistrano , Zoomars at River Street Ranch

Visiting The Wine Country In Temecula

See beautiful hillside golf courses and vineyards..

Further inland still is the Southern California city of Temecula. It's famous for the nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country, with stunning hillside vineyards and abundant golf courses. Another beautiful historic town, Temecula, is filled with 1800s buildings and antique stores, making it a unique stop along the way between LA and San Diego.

• Location: Temecula, California
• Major Attractions: Old Town Temecula , Wilson Creek Winery

Related: Less Touristy (But Still Fun!) Things To Do In San Diego

Surfing At San Clemente State Beach

Windy, wavy, and perfect for water sports..

San Clemente is a quirky surf town and is the southernmost town in Orange County. It is often windy and wavy, making it the perfect place to try out some water sports, and there are surfing spots here suitable for beginners right up to professionals, making it one of the best surf spots along the California coast. Another unique thing about San Clemente Beach is that visitors can camp right on the mile-long beach !

• Location: San Clemente, CA 92672
• Major Attractions: San Clemente Pier , San Clemente Coastal Trail

Stop By The Beach At Oceanside and Visit LEGOLAND In Carlsbad

Home to the longest wooden pier and a chance to be a child again..

Oceanside has over 6 miles of breathtaking beaches, making it one of the best beach-side destinations along this coastline. It is also home to the longest wooden pier on the California coast - roughly 1/3 mile long! The views along the Oceanside coast are truly spectacular, and it is worth taking some time here to soak them up!

A short drive from Oceanside is the small town of Carlsbad, which is often top of tourist's to-see lists because of its many big attractions, including the LEGOLAND California Resort and the impressive Sea Life Aquarium.

• Location: Oceanside , Carlsbad
• Drive: Oceanside to Carlsbad (3.3 miles - 8 minutes)
• Major Attractions: Oceanside Pier , Mission San Luis Rey , LEGOLAND California , Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM)

Take In The Quaint Seaside Charm Of Encinitas

Enjoy a unique botanical garden and the small-town vibe..

Another stop with unbeatable coastal views is the beautiful Encinitas. This small city is just a little south of Carlsbad, and the streets are packed with quirky stores and relaxed restaurants. It is also home to the San Diego Botanical Garden, filled with various plant species from around the world. For visitors looking for a mellow town with seaside charm, this is the perfect place to stop.

• Location: Encinitas, California
• Major Attractions: Moonlight State Beach , Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens

The Calmness Of A Sanctuary At Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve

Witness the unique torrey pine and several migratory birds..

Although technically within San Diego city limits, the Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve is one of the wildest lands found along the Southern California coastline . Here, visitors will find the rare Torrey pine along with a beautiful lagoon, which is still used by several migrating bird species. With deep sandstone canyons and miles of pristine beaches, this is the perfect last stop before hitting San Diego!

• Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Major Attractions: Razor Point and Beach Trail Loop , La Jolla Cove

Summer Entertainment At Newport Beach

A beachside destination boasts entertainment, food, and history..

Newport Beach town will be reached on a road trip from LA to San Diego after driving along Highway 1 to the south from Huntington. This iconic town is known as an amazing summer destination and boasts various types of activities for everyone to enjoy. People visiting Newport Beach are recommended to see the Fun Zone and Balboa Pier, where they will witness an amazing seaside amusement park with arcade games, a small Ferris wheel, and traditional carnival food. Multi-million dollar homes and iconic boutiques can be spotted on Balboa Island. The latter can be reached from Balboa Pier in five minutes in a small car ferry.

• Location: Newport Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Balboa Island Ferry , Newport Beach

Finding Solitude At Table Rock Beach

Not the easiest to reach, but it's well worth the effort..

People who want to enjoy stunning seaside scenery with fewer tourist crowds will stop at Table Rock Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County. This spot can be located in South Laguna just off of the Pacific Coast Highway, north of Mission Hospital. Although people will have to walk down several stairs to reach the beach, it's still worth witnessing this unique area. The wonderful surf, beautiful rock formations, and solitude Table Rock Beach offers are all worth heading to this difficult-to-reach stop along the road trip from LA to San Diego.

• Location: 31561 Table Rock Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Major Attractions: Table Rock Beach , Laguna Beach Open Ocean Kayaking Tour with Sea Lion Sightings (Nearby)

Party At The Pacific Beach

Beachfront entertainment and the beautiful californian sunset..

The beachside neighborhood of Pacific Beach near San Diego is known as a party playground or P.B. (as the locals call it). P.B. comes alive at night with the glow of bonfires and the electricity of the region's many clubs. However, with endless stretches of coast, it's also the perfect downtime spot for families. P.B., or Pacific Beach, is also one of California's best beaches in and near San Diego . It has a 3.2-mile-long boardwalk lined with beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops, which is also a great vantage point to watch the beautiful Californian sunset every night. San Diego is known for its beaches and delicious cuisines , and it can all start here at Pacific Beach.

• Location: Pacific Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Mission Bay Park , San Diego Zoo

Lifeguard stands are staffed year-round from North Pacific Beach down to Mission Beach. The main lifeguard tower is located at the end of Grand Avenue.

Make A Stop At Santa Ana, The Face Of A New California.

Be surprised by the art, culture, and attractions found in historic santa ana..

The New York Times has characterized approximately four-fifths Latino, Santa Ana, as the "face of a new California , a state where Latinos have more influence in everyday life." Santa Ana is a cultural, entertainment, and culinary center of large and diverse Orange County, rich in authentic heritage and can't-miss gems. Art is everywhere in Santa Ana, from local galleries and studios to museums and alleyways. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the French Park neighborhood adjacent to downtown consists of 20 square blocks lined with stately homes from the 1880s.

• Location: Santa Ana, California
• Major Attractions: Lyon Air Museum , Blinking Owl Distillery

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California to Chicago drive

California to chicago road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from California to Chicago. If you're planning a road trip to Chicago, 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 40 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 40 hours

11:00 am  leave from Bakersfield drive for about 5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 5 hours

8:00 am  leave from Bellagio Hotel drive for about 5 hours

12:50 pm   Bryce Canyon National Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:50 pm drive for about 9 hours

day 3 driving ≈ 13.5 hours

11:00 am  leave from Aspen drive for about 3.5 hours

day 4 driving ≈ 3.5 hours

10:00 am  leave from The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in Denver drive for about 5 hours

3:07 pm   Kearney (Nebraska) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:07 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 5 driving ≈ 8 hours

10:00 am  leave from Omaha drive for about 7 hours

5:01 pm  arrive in Chicago eat at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria stay at The James Chicago Hotel

day 6 driving ≈ 7 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Bakersfield   (23 answers)     questions about Bakersfield:         Best free things to do in Bakersfield? Las Vegas   (379 answers)     Downtown Container Park   (15 mentions)     Fremont Street Experience   (15 mentions)     High Roller   (10 mentions)     The Mob Museum   (8 mentions)     Neon Museum   (8 mentions)     restaurants around Las Vegas:         Giada         Mon Ami Gabi         Wicked Spoon         Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino         Lotus of Siam     hotels around Las Vegas:         Bellagio Hotel         MGM Grand Las Vegas         Wynn Hotel Las Vegas         Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino         The Cosmopolitan     questions about Las Vegas:         Best new restaurants in Vegas?         What time of year is the best for scoring a cheap deals in Las Vegas         Best tips and casinos for first time gambler?         Is it better to stay on or off the Las Vegas strip?         Top things to do in Las Vegas that don't include gambling? Bryce Canyon National Park   (51 mentions)     questions about Bryce Canyon National Park:         Poisonous plants/ Venomous animals in Bryce Canyon Aspen   (28 answers)     questions about Aspen:         Where to raft or tube in Aspen?         Ideas for romantic hotels in Aspen.         Good, solid American grub in Aspen - any recommendations? Denver   (227 answers)     Denver Museum of Nature and Science   (15 mentions)     Denver Botanic Gardens   (12 mentions)     Denver Art Museum   (11 mentions)     LoDo   (11 mentions)     Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre   (11 mentions)     restaurants around Denver:         Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen         Rioja         Acorn         Root Down         Bistro Vendome     hotels around Denver:         The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in Denver         The Crawford Hotel         Four Seasons Hotel Denver         Hotel Teatro         the Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel     questions about Denver:         Short, scenic drives from Denver?         Best resort for advanced skier?         Things to do and see in or around Denver Colorado         Activites to do with children ages 7-11         Top 5 must see attractions in Denver? Kearney (Nebraska)   (4 answers) Omaha   (31 answers)     Henry Doorly Zoo   (8 mentions)     Joslyn Art Museum   (3 mentions)     Lauritzen Gardens   (2 mentions)     The Durham Museum   (2 mentions)     Omaha Children's Museum   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Omaha:         M's Pub         Stokes Grill & Bar Wood Fired Foods         801 Chophouse at The Paxton         Lo Sole Mio Ristorante     questions about Omaha:         Best free things to do in Omaha?         Dog friendly hotels         TT Best Free Overnight

Where's the best place to stay in Chicago?

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 Chicago .

You can also see most people recommend as the best amount of time to visit. Find out how many days in Chicago to stay.

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out The James Chicago Hotel , which was mentioned 12 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Chicago? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Chicago?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Lou Malnati's Pizzeria , which was mentioned 36 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Chicago? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Chicago?

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 Chicago. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Chicago.

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 Chicago 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 Chicago . Or get a full California to Chicago 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