Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip – Best Itinerary, Map & Tips

by Petr Novák, ? This article’s information was last verified on this date. If you notice any errors, let us know in the comments. Thank you! :-) Updated 01/17/2025 Adventure, Arizona, Beverly Hills, California, Car Rental & Driving, Grand Canyon, Hollywood, Hoover Dam, Las Vegas, National Parks, Road Trips, San Francisco, Santa Monica, Summer in the USA, Tips & Tricks, Travel Guide, Venice

National parks and amusement parks, tranquil beaches and bustling cities—the western United States has it all. Here’s a detailed itinerary for a packed 21-day road trip across the USA. While three weeks may seem like a long time, you’ll find yourself not wanting to go home. The itinerary includes maps, attraction tips, recommended accommodations, and everything else you’ll need.

What Are the Costs of a Road Trip in the Western USA?

The total cost of a road trip depends on many factors, such as the time of year, price fluctuations, current demand, and how much you’re willing to spend. The following figures are rough estimates.

The minimum cost for a 21-day road trip is approximately $2,500 per person. This assumes a discounted airfare priced under $400, cost-sharing among four people, sleeping in sleeping bags or one room at a budget motel, and being careful with every dollar spent.

A comfortable road trip for two, staying in moderately rated motels or hotels at reasonable prices, eating at fast food chains like Subway, and having sufficient spending money for experiences and souvenirs will cost about $5,000 per person.

All prices in this article were last updated on January 16, 2025.

✈️ Airfare

Round-trip tickets from the Europe to the U.S. West Coast range from $350 to $850. The lower end usually reflects promotional fares with multiple layovers and off-season travel dates. Most tickets in this price range include only carry-on luggage.

More commonly, expect prices around $650 per person, including fees. You can search for flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Las Vegas.

🚗 Car Rental

Renting a mid-size car for three weeks will cost at least $1,400, including full insurance coverage. You can save by choosing a more economical car class, but I don’t recommend this. You’ll spend many hours in the car, and you can share costs with your travel companions.

For a better idea, you can calculate an estimated rental cost for different car categories. The calculation is free and does not require an email. Also, be sure to check out advice on driving in the U.S. and renting a car in the USA.

⛽ Gasoline

With an average fuel consumption of 10 liters per 100 kilometers and a gas price of $4.12 per gallon, you should budget approximately $0.11/1 km. The total distance covered in this itinerary is about 2,933 mi, which translates to total fuel costs of around $514.

🛏️ Accommodation

A room for 2–4 people at the cheapest motels costs between $75 and $85 per night, offering only basic amenities and comfort.

A room in a budget hotel on the Las Vegas Strip starts at $100 per night. Staying off the Strip is not recommended due to the minimal price difference and the inconvenience of traveling to the city center. Watch out for resort and other fees that are often added to the base price of hotels in Las Vegas.

For longer stays in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or San Francisco, Airbnb is a more affordable alternative.

You can find indicative accommodation prices on platforms like Booking.com.

🍔 Food

Eating at fast-food chains will cost a minimum of $25 to $35 per day. This is the lowest price range for meals. Healthier and higher-quality meals, including water, will cost about $45 to $55 per day.

☂️ Travel Insurance

A one-time travel insurance policy for the U.S. covering three weeks starts at $35, with costs varying depending on additional coverage options.

Be cautious of travel insurance provided by credit cards, as these often have insufficient coverage limits.

🏞️ National Park Entrance Fees

With the America the Beautiful pass, you can visit all U.S. national parks without additional fees. The pass costs $80, is valid for one year, and covers your entire car group—there’s no need to buy separate passes for each traveler.

Some U.S. national parks require reservation of entry, so check the current conditions when planning your itinerary.

📄 ESTA

For a tourist trip to the U.S. lasting less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Instead, you need to complete the ESTA travel authorization form online.

The fee for filling out the form is $4.00, and if approved, an additional $17.00 will be charged to your card. As long as you have not overstayed a prior U.S. visit or committed any crimes, you are very likely to receive travel approval.

🎡 Pocket Money

How much you spend depends on how thrifty you want to be. As a general rule, I wouldn’t recommend budgeting less than $800 for entry fees, souvenirs, and experiences. If you’d like to fully enjoy your road trip and create unforgettable memories, consider setting aside around $1,600 per person.

10 Valuable Tips for a Perfect U.S. Road Trip

1️⃣ Plan Ahead

Prepare your travel itinerary well before your departure date. Book any necessary tickets and have a backup plan in case of bad weather. From my experience, improvising on-site often leads to negative consequences.

2️⃣ Decide What You Want to See

A quick search will reveal hundreds of road trip itineraries across the U.S. Some focus exclusively on the West Coast, while others speed through top attractions from the Pacific to the Atlantic.

Neither approach is wrong—it all depends on your preferences. Do you want to explore national parks or relax at Venice Beach? Would you rather travel leisurely or make the most of every single day?

3️⃣ Your Road Trip Doesn’t Have to Start in Los Angeles

I recommend comparing flight prices to Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. Also compare car rental prices from these cities. Add up both costs and choose the cheapest option as your starting point, then adjust your route accordingly.

4️⃣ Hit the Road Right After Landing

Save sightseeing in your arrival city for the end of your trip. This way, you’ll have a time buffer to handle any unexpected issues without worrying about missing your flight home.

5️⃣ Accept That You Can’t See Everything

The unspoken rule of long trips is that even if you plan out every single day in detail, delays will inevitably occur, forcing you to make cuts. To avoid disagreements, set priorities for must-see attractions and those you’re willing to skip.

I find using a color-coded system helpful. Mark places you absolutely want to see with green, optional stops with yellow, and attractions that can be added if there’s time with red.

6️⃣ Rent a Spacious and Comfortable Car

Economy cars may be cheaper, but they are not suitable for long road trips. Keep in mind that you’ll be spending at least three hours a day in the car. Opting for a larger and more comfortable vehicle isn’t a luxury—it’s an investment in your comfort. You can compare rental prices for different car classes here.

7️⃣ Split Long Drives Between Morning and Evening

Personally, I dislike endless hours of driving, especially as a passenger. If you feel the same, split long drives in half. Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Canyon, then head toward Monument Valley in the evening. When you’re tired, stop at the nearest motel and get some rest. Finish the drive in the morning.

8️⃣ Share the Driving

Don’t rely on just one driver for the entire 21-day trip. They may get tired or sick, causing the whole journey to grind to a halt. It’s better if at least two people can share the driving duties. Make sure to list all additional drivers in the rental agreement.

9️⃣ How Much Does Gas Cost in the U.S.?

California has some of the highest gas prices in the country. In January 2025, gas costs $4.42 per gallon in California, compared to just $3.70 in Las Vegas. One gallon equals 3.7854 liters.

Gas stations in the U.S. operate differently than you may be used to. Before your trip, check out this guide on how to pump gas in America.

🔟 Don’t Have 21 Days for a U.S. Road Trip?

This itinerary is based on a 21-day trip, but you can adapt it for a 14-day journey by skipping some time-intensive detours, such as visiting Canyonlands, Arches, and Capitol Reef. You’ll also save time if you head directly from Los Angeles to Grand Canyon National Park.

21-Day Road Trip Itinerary Across the Western USA

1. 

   Arrival in Los Angeles

   For reference: Right now, it’s 12:49 in Los Angeles. Upon arrival in the U.S., be mindful of the time zone difference; you’ll likely experience jet lag and feel tired. Avoid planning anything major for the first day.

   First, purchase and activate a SIM card to access mobile data. For instance, you can buy an Airalo SIM card before you even leave.

   In the afternoon, pick up your rental car, check into a motel, and rest up for the next day. Stop by Walmart, Walgreens, 7-Eleven, CVS Pharmacy, or another convenience store to buy snacks for the following day to save time. Stock up on water to keep in the car as well.

   If you’re struggling to sleep, take a walk through the city—without any fixed route.

   • Accommodation: Motel in Los Angeles
2. 

   Joshua Tree National Park

   Wake up early and head towards Joshua Tree National Park. The approximately 124 mi trip takes about two and a half hours in light traffic. Use the America the Beautiful pass for park entry.

   The Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia) is an iconic tree almost exclusively found in the Mojave Desert. Thousands of these unique trees grow throughout the park. I recommend choosing one of the trails, such as the Barker Dam Trail.

   If time permits, visit nearby Palm Springs. Stop for lunch and take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which offers stunning views of the surroundings.

   Another fascinating site is the Sunnylands Estate, nicknamed “Camp David of the West.” U.S. presidents such as Eisenhower, Ford, and Reagan once held meetings here. Guided tours featuring artwork by Picasso and Bearden are available; buy your tickets online in advance to avoid sold-out tours.

   In the evening, drive towards the Grand Canyon and ideally stay overnight in the town of Kingman, Arizona.

   • Day 2 Route: Google Maps (328 mi / 5:20 h)
   • Accommodation: Motel in Kingman, Arizona
3. 

   Grand Canyon National Park and Horseshoe Bend

   In Kingman, Arizona, visit the Route 66 Museum after breakfast. Here, you’ll find original signage, vintage photos, and retro diner decor. Admission for adults costs $10.00 (updated January 2025).

   From Kingman, it’s less than a three-hour drive to Grand Canyon National Park. Begin your visit at the visitor center, where you can watch a 20-minute documentary about the canyon. From there, free shuttles will take you to various viewpoints—leave your car at the center.

   A point of interest is the historic train depot dating back to 1901, located near the visitor center and easily accessible.

   After exploring the Grand Canyon, drive about two hours to Horseshoe Bend. This iconic U.S. landmark features a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River.

   For the best photos, arrive at Horseshoe Bend before sunset. Spend the night in a motel in Page, located 5 mi away.

   • Day 3 Route: Google Maps (308 mi / 5:10 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Motel in Page, Arizona
4. 

   Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley

   Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Horseshoe Bend (What time does the sun rise?).

   Just 9 mi from Horseshoe Bend is Antelope Canyon, a natural marvel with vibrant orange and pink hues. Its colors are entirely natural and untouched. Take some time to explore this breathtaking site.

   Afterward, drive toward Monument Valley. For many, this iconic stretch of highway surrounded by majestic rock formations is the quintessential image of America.

   Start at the visitor center to learn about the history of the Navajo Nation, which still manages the area. Explore the scenic drive, a 17 mi road with 14 stops, which takes about three hours to complete.

   In the evening, drive approximately two and a half hours north to Moab, Utah. Spend two nights in a motel here, giving you time to rest and do laundry. For dinner, visit one of the roadside diners.

   • Day 4 Route: Google Maps (283 mi / 5:15 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Motel in Moab, Utah
5. 

   Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

   The first destination of the day is Arches National Park, known for its stunning rock arches and bridges. The park entrance is just a 10-minute drive from Moab. Use the America the Beautiful pass for entry.

   The park’s centerpiece is the 66 ft tall Delicate Arch, which you may recognize from Utah’s license plates. To beat the crowds, visit early in the morning. If you’re visiting in summer, bring plenty of water as it can get extremely hot.

   In the afternoon, visit Canyonlands National Park, located about 30–35 minutes from Arches. It’s interesting to compare the two parks.

   While Canyonlands also features breathtaking rock formations, it adds dramatic canyons to the mix. The northern section is easily accessible by car, but if you want to explore the southern part, renting a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. Hike one of the park’s trails to burn off some of those fast-food calories. The shortest trail is just 2,625 ft, while the longest spans a challenging 21 mi.

   Return to the same motel in Moab for the night.

   • Day 5 Route: Google Maps (62 mi / 1:15 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Motel in Moab, Utah
6. 

   Capitol Reef National Park

   After breakfast, embark on a three-hour drive from Moab to Capitol Reef National Park.

   Begin your visit at the visitor center, then take the 8 mi scenic drive with 11 stops featuring incredible viewpoints. Alternatively, consider the much longer 59 mi Cathedral Valley Drive, which offers a greater variety of rock formations.

   Spend sunset (What time does the sun set?) at Sunset Point, a short 1,969 ft walk from the parking area.

   In the evening, drive about two and a half hours to Beaver, Utah, where you’ll spend the night.

   • Day 6 Route: Google Maps (280 mi / 4:45 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Motel near Beaver, Utah
7. 

   Zion National Park

   In the morning, continue southeast toward Las Vegas, with your next stop approximately two hours away.

   Put on sturdy hiking boots and embark on a trek in Zion National Park, whose name in Hebrew means “sacred place.” You can navigate the park using free shuttle buses that depart from designated stops every few minutes.

   Zion National Park features scenic waterfalls near the Temple of Sinawava, the 6,745 ft high Great White Throne rock formation, and the 1,490 ft tall Angel’s Landing, which is perfect for climbing enthusiasts. If you enjoy a challenge, try scaling it.

   The park offers more than ten hiking trails, ranging from a short 2,625 ft walk to the West Rim Trail, which is nearly 16 mi long in one direction. This trail is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in all U.S. national parks.

   After exploring Zion, drive another hour to St. George, where you’ll find numerous motel and hotel options such as Motel 6, Super 8, Days Inn, Best Western, and America’s Best Inn.

   • Day 7 Route: Google Maps (151 mi / 2:40 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Motel in St. George, Utah
8. 

   Las Vegas

   St. George is only 121 mi away from Las Vegas, a drive that takes approximately two hours on Interstate 15.

   In Las Vegas, it’s best to stay on the Strip, the city’s main thoroughfare lined with hotels and casinos. The price difference between accommodations on the Strip and outside of it is minimal compared to the hassle of commuting to the center multiple times a day.

   Park your car at the hotel garage and set out to explore the city. Consider dividing your Strip visit into two parts—start with the northern end. Near the intersection of Interstates 15 and 515 is Fremont Street, Las Vegas’ historic center with its original casinos and hotels. Although it feels quieter compared to the bustling Strip, Fremont Street lights up at night with more than 2 million bulbs creating dazzling displays.

   While on Fremont Street, stop by the quirky Heart Attack Grill. This unique restaurant is known for its outrageously high-calorie burgers, fries cooked in lard, and a patient-themed dress code for diners. It’s worth visiting even if you usually avoid fast food—it’s quite the spectacle.

   For the best views of Las Vegas, head to the top of the city’s tallest structure, the 922 ft tall The STRAT Hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the three adrenaline-pumping attractions on the roof. I highly recommend them—do you dare to take the plunge?

   Before heading back to your hotel, stop by the Mirage Hotel’s erupting volcano and the dancing fountain at the Bellagio. These free shows run throughout the day.

   • Day 8 Route: Google Maps (121 mi / 2:00 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Hotel on the Strip in Las Vegas
9. 

   Hoover Dam

   Start day nine by driving to the 34 mi distant Hoover Dam. With minimal traffic, the journey takes less than 40 minutes.

   Hoover Dam was constructed in the 1920s when Las Vegas had a population of just 5,000. This massive structure, 722 ft high, holds as much water as the Colorado River flows through in two years. The visitor center inside the dam is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and I recommend taking the guided tour, which is offered in English. Parking is available in a nearby garage.

   After returning to Las Vegas, leave your car in the hotel garage and explore the southern part of the Strip. For a different perspective, check out the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas or take a ride on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel.

   • Day 9 Route: Google Maps (68 mi / 1:30 hrs)
   • Accommodation: Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip
10. 

    Helicopter Tour over the Grand Canyon

    Today, leave your car in the hotel garage and take a helicopter tour instead.

    A helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon is not cheap, but the experience is well worth the cost. Be sure to book your tickets before your trip to the U.S.

    During my visit, I flew with Papillon over the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. I recommend securing seats in the front row of the helicopter for the best views.

    Make the most of your last day in Las Vegas. Visit some of the city’s famous casinos, ride the Big Apple Coaster at the New York-New York hotel, or stop by CBS Television City. This research center, located inside a hotel, lets volunteers preview and influence the future of TV shows. Admission is free, and the visit takes about an hour.

    For unique souvenirs, head to the giant Coca-Cola store, where you can taste 16 sodas from around the world for just a few dollars.

    • Accommodation: Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip
11. 

    Death Valley

    After several days without long drives, it’s time to hit the road again. Las Vegas is about 142 mi from Death Valley National Park, a journey of just over two hours.

    Death Valley is the driest and hottest place in the U.S., so prepare for extreme conditions and stock up on water to stay hydrated.

    Two main attractions are worth visiting: Badwater Basin, at an elevation of 282 ft below sea level, is the second-lowest point in the Western Hemisphere. The other is Dante’s View, situated at an altitude of 5,476 ft, accessible by car.

    In the afternoon, drive to Bakersfield, California, a four-hour journey. Check into a motel for the night.

    • Day 11 Route: Google Maps (367 mi / 6:15 hrs)
    • Accommodation: Motel in Bakersfield, California
12. 

    Sequoia National Park

    In the morning, drive 94 mi, about two hours, to Sequoia National Park.

    The park’s highlights include the world’s largest trees, giant sequoias, which reach incredible heights. The tallest tree in the park and a popular attraction is General Sherman, standing at 275 ft tall with a circumference of 103 ft.

    Another fascinating feature is Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia measuring 276 ft in length and over 20 ft wide. It toppled in a storm in 1937, and instead of removing it, park officials carved a tunnel through the trunk, creating a unique landmark.

    In the evening, drive another 78 mi to Fresno, California, where you’ll spend the night. If time permits, consider visiting the nearby Kings Canyon National Park, located north of Sequoia.

    • Day 12 Route: Google Maps (171 mi / 3:15 hrs)
    • Accommodation: Motel in Fresno, California
13. 

    Yosemite National Park

    After breakfast, drive north to Yosemite National Park, a journey that takes just over two hours.

    Park your car and take a short hike to Tunnel View, a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks, including El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.

    If you’re up for more adventure, continue to the lower or upper Yosemite Falls. The lower falls are accessible via a 1 mi trail that takes about 30 minutes. The upper falls require a more strenuous hike, climbing 2,700 ft over a 7 mi trail, which takes 6–8 hours.

    In the evening, drive east toward San Francisco. Choose a motel in Turlock or Merced for an overnight stay.

    • Day 13 Route: Google Maps (197 mi / 4:45 hrs)
    • Accommodation: Motel in Turlock, California
14. 

    San Francisco: Lombard Street and Cable Car Ride

    If you managed to reach Turlock the previous day, you can take your time in the morning. From Turlock, it’s just 106 mi to San Francisco, a drive of under two hours.

    Start your day in San Francisco by driving down Lombard Street. The street is so steep that a series of switchbacks had to be built, turning it into an unintentional tourist attraction.

    Afterward, check into your accommodation and park your car. Hotels in San Francisco can be expensive, so I recommend opting for a room or apartment rental through Airbnb.

    In the evening, take a bus into the city and hop onto one of the historic cable cars, which have been traversing San Francisco’s streets since 1873. Board the car at the corner of Hyde and Beach Streets, where you can witness the unique manually operated turntable.

    The best part of the cable car experience is standing on the open platform at the back or hanging off the side—just ask the conductor if you’d like to try.

    • Day 14 Route: Google Maps (106 mi / 1:55 hrs)
    • Accommodation: Hotel in San Francisco or Airbnb
15. 

    San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz

    You can sleep in this morning.

    Although today’s itinerary includes the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s best to visit it after lunch when the fog clears. Fog is very typical for San Francisco, covering the city on average 105 days a year.

    After viewing the Golden Gate Bridge, head over to tour the legendary Alcatraz prison. Be sure to book your tickets well in advance, as they often sell out quickly. Skipping a visit to Alcatraz would be a real shame.

    You can use the remaining time of the day to explore Pier 39 and take a stroll through the steep streets of San Francisco. You might even come across the crooked house, a photo of which occasionally circulates on social media.

    • Accommodation: Hotel in San Francisco or Airbnb
16. 

    Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Big Sur

    The Pacific Coast Highway is often called the most beautiful highway in the world. It connects San Francisco to Los Angeles along the Pacific Ocean coastline. Here, more than anywhere else, the saying “the journey is the destination” rings true.

    Leave San Francisco early in the morning as today’s schedule is packed. Your first stop is the giant aquarium in Monterey. Admission for adults is $65 (price updated January 16, 2025), but the experience of exploring the underwater world filled with octopuses, squids, sharks, otters, fish, and other creatures is well worth it.

    Just 6 mi farther lies Pebble Beach. Don’t bother bringing towels or sunscreen; this beach is all about cliffs, green meadows, and dramatic ocean views. If you have the time, take a drive along the scenic 17-Mile Drive. This route passes luxurious estates and golf courses, with the most famous landmark being Lone Cypress, a solitary tree that has stood on its ocean-washed rock for 250 years.

    The sixteenth day of your road trip across America also includes exploring the Big Sur region, where famed writer Jack Kerouac once lived and created. On clear days, this area is full of surfers, as it’s said to have the best, highest, and wildest waves in the world. There are numerous restaurants in Big Sur where you can stop for a late lunch.

    Before reaching Big Sur, you’ll cross the Bixby Bridge, built in 1933. With stunning hills on one side and the ocean on the other, it’s one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

    Another beautiful stop is the McWay Falls. It’s just a 29 mi detour off the highway and an hour’s drive past Big Sur. For the night, choose one of the motels near the highway close to San Simeon.

    • Route for Day 16: Google Maps (229 mi / 6:00 hours)
    • Accommodation: Motel in San Simeon, California
17. 

    Hearst Castle, Pismo Beach, and Santa Barbara

    On a hill near San Simeon, you’ll find the national historic landmark Hearst Castle. This modern and luxurious estate was built in 1919 for magnate William Randolph Hearst, whose life inspired the film Citizen Kane.

    This architecturally significant building is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM. Admission for adults is $35, while children under 12 pay $18.00 (prices updated January 16, 2025). Tickets should be purchased in advance. Today, Hearst Castle operates as a museum with several guided tour options focusing on the villa’s richly decorated and furnished rooms. The terrace offers a stunning view of the coastline.

    After the villa tour, hop back in your car and head south on the Pacific Coast Highway. About an hour’s drive will take you to Pismo Beach, a sleepy coastal town with fewer than eight thousand residents. Take a break on the sandy beach with its wooden pier, offering a gorgeous sunset view.

    Alternatively, skip the romance and drive two more hours to the larger city of Santa Barbara, home to over 100,000 people. This university town also boasts white sandy beaches. Adventurers can book a paragliding session, conquer waves on a surfboard, or simply take a relaxing kayak ride.

    In the evening, complete the final 101 mi stretch to Los Angeles and settle in for the night. Don’t rely solely on hotels and motels—Airbnb is a great alternative. You can even rent a house right on the beach, which might surprisingly cost less than a hotel.

    • Route for Day 17: Google Maps (263 mi / 5:30 hours)
    • Accommodation: Motel in Los Angeles or Airbnb
18. 

    Universal Studios Hollywood

    Universal Studios Hollywood is both an actual film studio and a theme park—arguably the best in the Los Angeles area. An adult ticket costs $109 (updated January 16, 2025), and children’s tickets aren’t much cheaper. However, it’s well worth the price.

    You’ll see original props from movie franchises like Back to the Future and Fast & Furious. You’ll also visit the street where the characters of Desperate Housewives lived and, if you’re lucky, witness the filming of a Hollywood production.

    There are so many attractions in the park that you’ll struggle to see them all in one day. We arrived before the gates opened and went straight to the most popular attractions (which quickly developed hour-long queues)… and still found it challenging to fit everything in. Here’s a golden tip: arrive early in the morning.

    The Studio Tour, which takes you around the park on a small train with commentary, is the highlight. Other top-notch attractions include The Simpsons Ride, Revenge of the Mummy, and Jurassic Park.

    After the park closes, don’t rush to bed. Instead, take a stroll along the nearby Universal CityWalk. The promenade often features magicians, musicians, and other entertainers, and you can shop for souvenirs in dozens of stores and restaurants.

    • Accommodation: Motel in Los Angeles or Airbnb
19. 

    Los Angeles: Hollywood and Griffith Observatory

    No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without seeing the famous sign that has stood atop the Hollywood Hills for over 100 years. While direct access to the sign is prohibited, it’s perfectly visible from several nearby locations. These spots are accessible by car, or if you’re feeling active, you can hike there.

    Combine your hike with a visit to the Griffith Observatory, which offers free admission. Note that the observatory is closed on Mondays. Inside, you can marvel at views of stars and planets, while the terrace provides a breathtaking panorama of Los Angeles.

    In the afternoon, descend from the hills to the main street, Hollywood Boulevard, and look down at the pavement. It’s lined with over 2,800 stars bearing the names of the most famous actors, singers, directors, and other Hollywood artists. If luck is on your side, you might witness the unveiling of a new star.

    Sports fans should check the schedules for NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS, and NFL games. In the evening, you might catch the Kings (hockey), Lakers or Clippers (basketball), Dodgers (baseball), or Rams and LA Galaxy (football). Official tickets can be quite expensive, so consider using cheaper resale options from fans.

    • Accommodation: Motel in Los Angeles or Airbnb
20. 

    Los Angeles: Santa Monica and Venice Beach

    Consider this second-to-last day of your USA road trip as a buffer day. On long trips like this, delays are almost inevitable, and you may not have been able to accomplish everything you originally planned. So, avoid scheduling any activities today that you’ve been looking forward to your whole life.

    The beaches at Santa Monica and Venice Beach are among the most tourist-heavy spots in all of Los Angeles. Their promenades are lined with palm trees, souvenir shops, quirky street performers, and even clinics offering medical marijuana. You can easily spend an entire day here.

    Work out at the iconic Muscle Beach, an open-air gym where Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny Trejo trained in the 1960s.

    Soak in the atmosphere at the tiny amusement park, Pacific Park, on the Santa Monica Pier, and take a ride on the West Coaster roller coaster. While its only train reaches a maximum speed of 35 mph, the friendly staff might just give you a free ride if you flash a smile.

    And keep your eyes peeled—you might spot the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company Restaurant. It’s located on the same pier as the bench where Forrest Gump sat in the movie of the same name.

    • Accommodation: Motel in Los Angeles or Airbnb
21. 

    Departure Day

    On your final day, pack your suitcases, return your car, and head to the airport.

    You can snap a unique farewell photo near the airport at the western end of West Century Blvd. In the middle of a busy road, you’ll find a giant concrete sculpture of the letters “LAX”, the abbreviation for Los Angeles International Airport.

    There’s also a branch of the Subway restaurant nearby, where you can grab your last meal before departure.