There’s nothing like experiencing America on a road trip. I feel its one of the best ways to explore this vast country, that is so abundantly filled with bustling cities, charming towns, and picturesque countryside. Besides, the ever-changing landscapes from one state to another brings in a certain level of uniqueness to what you discover.

From the industrial allure of New Jersey’s urban sprawl to the tranquil beauty of the Carolinas’ rolling hills, every mile unravels new stories, experiences, and vistas. As you follow the highway’s winding path, you’ll witness the transition from vibrant autumnal hues to the sun-soaked shores of Florida’s renowned beaches. Along the way, historical landmarks, diverse cultures, and local delicacies beckon, inviting you to experience the diversity of each state.

In this guide, we tell you exactly how you can plan a perfect New Jersey to Florida road trip. Though perfecting one is never an easy task, but we got you covered with handy external guides, useful resources, experiential activities, accommodation options, and much more. Thus, making your efforts ease out on putting any additional work.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

Planning Tips for New Jersey to Florida Drive

Best Route to Reach Florida from New Jersey

The drive from New Jersey to Florida traverses through five American states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Carolina, and Florida. This specific route is characterized by its inland trajectory, which does require a comparatively longer duration to reach Florida in contrast to the Coastal Route. However, depending on the points of interest and overall cities to cover, the inland region is by far the best to take a road trip on.

Driving Times for New Jersey to Florida

The drive from New Jersey to Florida is 1119 miles (1800 km). If you were to drive non-stop, arriving would take approximately 16hr 48mins. However, a direct journey is not recommended and it’s best to appreciate the viewpoints and pit stops dotted along the Blue Ridge Parkway Route.

Secondly, I recommend spanning your road trip for a minimum of seven days to maximum ten. This timeframe strikes a perfect balance to explore highlights of each cities, whilst also ensuring that you have ample time to relax and rejuvenate.

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car for your Chicago to Yellowstone road trip, I suggest Rentalcars.com. I’ve personally used their service and have found it incredibly affordable compared to other rental operators. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your entire journey.

New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map (including stopover stops) –

New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Stops

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia beckons with a plethora of enthralling experiences, ranging from delving into its storied history to unearthing hidden treasures, savouring local bars, strolling through charming neighbourhoods, and immersing yourself in world-class museums. The city’s abundant offerings are enough to captivate your attention, leaving you yearning for an extended stay to fully indulge in its diverse allure.

Philadelphia is commonly referred to as a city known for its high historical significance. Beyond its historical roots, the city’s modern cultural influence shines through, particularly in its remarkable food and wine offerings that tantalize the taste buds of countless travelers. The iconic cheese sandwich, cheesesteak, and pretzels are some of the classics you cannot miss here.

Places to stay: Alexander Inn | The Windsor Suites | Philadelphia Marriot Downtown

I highly recommend spending a day or two exploring the landmarks of Philadelphia. Some of the prominent ones which should top your list include visiting the Independence Hall, the Christ Church and Burial Ground, Reading Terminal Market, Liberty Bell, and the Museum of the American Revolution. I also suggest touring Elfreth’s Alley which is one of the most beautiful locations in Philadelphia.

Read | The 10 Most Essential Things to Do on Your (First) Visit to Philly

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore, often lovingly dubbed “Charm City” by its residents, stands out as a vibrant and one of the most exciting destinations along our New Jersey to Florida road trip. Renowned for its picturesque waterfront vistas, charming cafes, and inviting restaurants, this city holds a special place in my heart. It’s my favourite place to come by, relax, and simply soak in the serene atmosphere.

Baltimore has all sorts of adventures packed for different age-groups, enabling them to experience the city like never before. Kids especially love it because of the large amusement parks it houses. While for adults, there are heaps of unique galleries, open market arenas, and cultural attractions to keep you occupied.

Places to stay: Lord Baltimore Hotel | Hyatt Place Baltimore | Inn at Henderson’s Wharf

When you’re in the city, I first recommend visiting Little Italy, which is a terrific neighbourhood for gastronomy scenes. Then head to Inner Harbour for a short sightseeing tour of Baltimore’s best museums and old historical buildings. Later, you could soak in the city’s energetic vibes by walking around Hampden and Fell’s Point neighbourhood.

Apart from the places you could visit, there’s loads of talent in the city which thrives on music and culture. From live performances and music concerts to comedy hoots and classic theatre shows, you could catch any event year-round in Baltimore.

Washington DC

What do you imagine when you hear Washington DC? Probably images of historical buildings, monuments, museums, and government buildings, correct? Well, that’s true to a certain extent, especially for first-time visitors exploring the capital city. But, what you may not realize, is that there is so much more!

However, beneath this familiar facade lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden path, you’ll find charming neighborhoods that beckon with their unique allure, quirky cafes that offer obscure and intriguing themes, and art exhibits that remain underappreciated or await exploration.

So, if you aren’t a first-timer then do checkout this amazing guide – 37 Non-Touristy Things To Do in Washington DC Besides Museums and Monuments. It will absolutely be handy for you explore the different side of the capital city.

Places to stay: Hamilton Hotel | Hotel Hive | Washington Plaza Hotel

For the ones traveling to Washington DC for the first, here’s a list of all the prominent landmarks to visit.

Explore DC Monuments & Memorials

This 3 hour small night tour led by a professional expert perfectly guides you through the major spots of Washington DC. It’s quite an affordable option as it allows you to maximize your sightseeing while worrying less about traveling within. Moreover, landmarks such as Jefferson Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial are lit beautifully during nighttime.

Visit Georgetown

Often overlooked, Georgetown is one of the prettiest neighbourhoods to visit in Washington DC. Thanks to cobbled streets, narrow passageways, beautiful brick homes, and small garden spaces – it definitely feels like nice to be around amidst the serene tranquility. Moreover, do not forget to visit some of the famous bakeries and seafood restaurants here during your visit.

Marvel at the White House

You just can’t leave Washington DC without paying a visit to the White House. This majestic edifice has held its role as the residence of U.S. presidents since the 18th century, carrying with it a rich history that spans generations. Over the years, the structure has gone through many changes but it still stands mighty showcasing its sheer white beauty. On certain days, you can tour the insides of the building, however if not, you can still appreciate its views from the fence.

Some of the trips worth looking at –

Quick Exploration: Washington DC: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
Bike Tours: Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
Day Trips: From Washington DC: Mt Vernon Day Trip, River Cruise & Lunch

Richmond, Virginia

From its vibrant downtown to many museums and historical sites, Richmond is one of the vibrant most cities of Virginia. Its typically known for its cultural significance, which itself is quite evident when you explore the city. However, the downtown area is what excites most travellers which often elevates your visiting experience.

In particular, I would like you to take Canal Walk which runs parallel to James River and the Kanawha Canal. The walk is a popular shopping spree street with great waterfront areas, outdoor seating restaurants, boutiques, and luxurious stores. If you want, you can also choose the Riverfront Canal Cruises for a guided boat trips to traverse across the downtown region.

Apart from this, there are other notable landmarks & attractions which are worth paying a visit. Some of these include exploring Hollywood Cemetery, The Poe Museum, Maymont Japanese Garden, and Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.

Read | The 16 Best Hotels in Downtown Richmond, VA

Charlotte, North Carolina

From indulging in the opulence of uptown Charlotte’s luxury hotels and dining establishments to experiencing the adrenaline-pumping NASCAR events at the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway, the city offers a dynamic range of attractions. The historic charm of its architecture, spanning from resplendent Victorian mansions to quaint Craftsman Bungalows, provides a perfect backdrop for exploration.

Charlotte is home to fascinating museums which houses unique discovery points to marvel at. If you have a chance to spend a couple of hours, I suggest visiting the Levine Museum and the Charlotte Nature Museum. But if you’re a fast-paced person like me, who would like to explore the city’s outdoors, then why not treat yourself with the culinary delights of the town’s most exciting food scenes.

Places to stay: Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte | Hyatt Centric Charlotte SouthPark

While there’s a lot to do in Charlotte, I recommend exploring these places first: SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, NASCAR Hall of Fame, and Zootastic Park. Also, do take walks around Freedom Park and Village Park to see what the city is all about.

Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, a vibrant and bustling city, plays host to a range of charming attractions that define the essence of South Carolina. Often overlooked along the New Jersey to Florida road trip, this hidden gem radiates a tranquil ambiance that’s truly worth savoring. Moreover, this town could be a perfect base for relaxation before you head to Florida for some jam-packed sightseeing.

While in Columbia, you could either simply relax by staying in one of prettiest accommodations or you could venture outdoors exploring vibrant places likes Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden, Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens, South Carolina State House, and Columbia Museum of Art.

Places to stay: Hyatt Place Columbia | Hilton Garden Inn Columbia

Jacksonville, Florida

Florida, a true haven of sun-kissed beaches and swaying palm trees stands as an embodiment of tropical paradise. At every turn, the radiant sun blesses the land with its warm embrace, casting a golden glow upon endless coastlines that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a perfect holiday destination for bachelors, young youths, and families, who are looking to relax and rejuvenate amidst the amazing Flordia vibe.

The first destination to visit when you touchdown in this state will be Jacksonville. This city, with its abundance of pristine beaches and untouched coastlines, serves as a great introduction to Florida’s wonders. While I was here, I totally loved the time I spent. I was surprised by the number of places you could visit, eventually giving a tough battle to its counter cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Orlando.

So, to help you get an idea of the best visiting places in Jacksonville, we dotted out some notable attractions for you.

Explore the Jacksonville River Walks

The Jacksonville River Walks is a collection of captivating urban trails guiding you to the town’s most cherished attractions. Meandering for 1.4 miles along the picturesque St. Johns River, this pathway offers breathtaking views of Downtown Jacksonville. As you stroll, be sure to scan the river’s expanse for playful dolphin sightings – an added delight to your waterfront experience.

Relax at Jacksonville’s beaches

Well, if there’s one thing you need to do on your arrival at Jacksonville is to hit its glorious beaches. Some of the famous ones which you should visit include Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Ponte Verda Beach. These beaches are home to amazing restaurants, serving classic seafood varietals and continental dishes. Moreover, kayaking and surfing are just a common day activity here. So ensure that you get your adventure hats on!

Hike at Big Talbot Islands State Park

Big Talbot Islands State Park is one of the must-visit places in Northern Florida. Featuring fancy outdoor settings, this unique spot is on the bucket list of many day trippers and localities living around the state. There are plenty of tidal creeks where you can simply relax and glide between the islands. The state park itself presents an exquisite fusion of wetlands, marshes, meandering bike paths, and secluded beaches. Among its popular routes, Blackrock Beach and Boneyard Beach stand out.

I highly recommend renting out a bike to explore the state park and its many unique hideouts. Alternatively, you can join the 3-mile-long Timucuan Trail, which runs through the stunning countryside of the park. The trails are nicely paved and structured, making it easy for beginner bikers to traverse.

Hotels | Discover some of the fascinating hotels in Florida

Orlando, Florida

While Orlando has earned its reputation as “the theme park capital of the world,” its allure extends far beyond exhilarating rides and outdoor attractions. Families with children are in for a paradise-like experience, making Orlando an ideal destination. But, travellers who’d like to enjoy the city more than just theme parks, will often find themselves amidst the vibing chaos of Orlando’s buzzing nightlife, street entertainment, and the great outdoors.

Read | 50 Things to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks

Walt Disney World Resort

Undoubtedly, Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most visited places in Florida. This comes as no shock, given its ability to captivate not only youngsters but also adults with an array of exhilarating rides, water parks, and entertainment galore. It’s like a whole new world inside, which apparently brings you into a dilemma in prioritizing your rides. What makes Walt Disney World the top attraction, is that it constantly evolves with new adventures and rides, keeping all age groups excited.

Universal Studios Orlando

Beloved fans of heart-throbbing franchises like Harry Potter, Transformers, and Jurassic Park would absolutely find Universal Studios a lifetime experience. This theme park masterfully delivers a once-in-a-lifetime encounter by immersing you in the worlds of your cherished characters whilst experiencing their unique theme-based rides and roller coasters. Even those who are unfamiliar with these series are utterly blown away by the rides and stunning visual settings.

Orlando: Universal Studios Park to Park Ticket (most booked)
2-Park Universal Express Passes (inclusive of Universal’s Islands of Adventure)

Miami, Florida

Nestled amidst its exquisite beaches, dynamic museums, endless shopping delights, and pulsating energy, Miami emerges as the ultimate embodiment of entertainment. The city’s year-round array of events and the rich tapestry of Cuban culture interwoven into its fabric amplify its vibrant essence. Miami is a bustling metropolis that beckons travelers globally. It stands as an essential highlight on our New Jersey to Florida road trip, embodying a thriving hub of exhilaration and a must-explore destination.

Whether you’re cruising past luxurious billionaire sailboats, scuba-diving deep into the turquoise waters, or bonding along with fellow localities, there are plenty of ways to discover the best things to do in Miami. I recommend exploring the below activities first to get a sense of what the city is all about.

Here are some of the notable things to do in Miami –

Explore Little Havana

Did anyone ever mention getting Cuban vibes in Miami? If not, then it’s time for you to take the Little Havana Food & Cultural Walking tour. It’s an amazing guided tour which takes you right into the heart of cultural Miami. From indulging in delectable Cuban street fare and cocktails to delving into inspirational tales of tradition, there’s a lot to venture into. You’ll be trying a variety of dishes such as guava pastries, chicken plantain cups and Cuban cigars.

Take a tour of the Everglades National Park

In addition to its renowned beaches and vibrant nightlife, Florida boasts a distinct reputation for its expansive swamplands and alligator inhabitants. For an up-close encounter with this diverse and unique landscape, there’s no better option than embarking on a guided tour of the World Heritage Site – Everglades National Park.

Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (Top-Rated Tour)
Miami Combo: Panoramic Bus Tour, Bay Cruise, & Everglades (Bundle Trip)

Encompassing a sprawling expanse of 1.5 million acres, this area is a sanctuary to a beautiful ecosystem. I recommend opting for a guided tour of the national park, ensuring you cover key attractions in a single day. As an alternative, you can also traverse the Anhinga Trail on foot, allowing you to spot Florida’s mesmerizing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Below are some of the optional excursions that could go well with your East American road trip.

Further Readings & Resources

New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops

A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –

California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip

The post 9 Ultimate New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Spots appeared first on Travel Realms.

The San Francisco to Seattle drive offers breathtaking coastal views, diverse landscapes, and a remarkable journey through some of the most picturesque destinations. From charming coastal villages to magnificent redwood forests and dramatic mountain scenery, this road trip encompasses the beauty of three distinct American states.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit national parks and explore some of the country’s most charming towns. It’s a road trip like no other; guaranteeing you an action-packed adventure filled with timeless attractions & activities.

In this guide, we’ve listed down our version of the San Francisco to Seattle road trip itinerary. To make it easier for you, we’ve included an array of optional destinations, tons of activities, and additional useful links for better understanding. This article will ensure that you tick off all your travel requirements in order to plan a successful San Francisco to Seattle road trip.

Planning Tips for San Francisco to Seattle Drive

Best Route to Reach Seattle from San Francisco

There are multiple route options for the drive from San Francisco to Seattle. Most visitors often stick with the coastal route, which offers stunning views along the Pacific Coastline. While some prefer taking an inland route, which provides a different landscape perspective. However, in terms of having the best possible viewing experience, the Pacific Coast remains a clear winner.

For our San Francisco to Seattle journey, we will be taking a combination of coastal & inland routes. There’s so much to uncover along the west coast that you may still have something left off for your next trip. It offers unparalleled coastal beauty and the opportunity to enjoy iconic attractions such as Big Sur, Oregon’s coastal towns, and the stunning Oregon Coastline.

Driving Times for San Francisco to Seattle

The drive from San Francisco to Seattle is 808 miles via I-5N. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 12hr 24mins to reach. So, theoretically, you could be covering this drive in two days, but to make it a road trip, we ideally suggest spanning this journey over a minimum of seven days to a maximum of two weeks.

Allowing two weeks of time gives you ample opportunity to make stops at various points of interest, enjoy scenic routes, explore charming towns, and experience the diverse landscapes and attractions that lie between San Francisco and Seattle.

Best Time to Visit

The San Francisco to Seattle drive can be enjoyed at any time of the year, but summers are generally considered the best time for this road trip. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy the bright sunny days of California and Oregon, spring and fall are also great options.

It’s important to note that certain attractions, such as Crater Lake National Park and Lassen Volcanic Park, may be inaccessible during the winter and spring months. While the facilities might be open, poor visibility can limit the ability to fully appreciate the scenic views. If visiting these attractions is a priority, we recommend planning your trip between June and October for the best chances of optimal conditions.

Please keep in mind to always check the weather conditions and accessibility before embarking on this road trip.

What to Pack

California’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. The temperature can vary by day and throughout the day too. So, you’ll anyway have to be prepared for any weather-changing circumstances for this road trip. We recommend packing enough layers, waterproof jackets, lightweight sweaters or fleeces, and comfortable long-sleeve t-shirts. Additionally, comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as they will come in handy for exploring hiking trails and other outdoor activities along the way

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car in the United States, I suggest Rentalcars.com. It’s one of the best rental services I’ve ever come across, offering affordable vehicles for the said duration. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your California road trip.

San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map for San Francisco to Seattle –

San Francisco to Seattle – A Glance

Here’s a quick glance at all the stops included in our San Francisco to Seattle road trip itinerary. We suggest doing them in order so that you also follow the route mentioned in this post.

San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops

San Francisco, California

The city of San Francisco is a playground for all age-group travellers looking to get the best out of the Californian experience. It thrives on the energy of its people and has much more to offer than you can even imagine. While we don’t want to overwhelm you with information here, it is definitely worthwhile to check out our ultimate guide on San Francisco for a comprehensive overview of the city and its attractions.

If you’re interested in taking a large detour from San Francisco, you may also want to check our road trip guide on 10 Day California Road Trip. This is one epic itinerary which we hand-curated from scratch covering places like Santa Margarita, Yosemite National Park, and Hermosa Beach.

There are a lot of extraordinary places along the Pacific Coastal Highway to check out! If you’re planning a classic Californian road trip, we highly recommend including this scenic route. It also makes for a great detour as a round trip from San Francisco, allowing you to experience the stunning coastal landscapes and visit various attractions along the way.

We recommend these amazing stays to keep you up with San Francisco’s best accommodation options. We personally tried a few of them and it’s worth booking these hotels in advance.

San Francisco: Beacon Grand | Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf | Infinity Hotel SF

Around San Francisco: Hotel Amari | Beresford Arms | Grand Hotel

Also, here are some of our suggested optional tours to book!

Sonoma, California

From bustling cafes & restaurants to outdoor adventures and hiking trails, Sonoma houses a rich tapestry of experiential activities. Located in the northern region of California, Sonoma has long been celebrated for its world-renowned wineries, captivating art galleries, and laid-back rustic atmosphere. It’s a city designed to be savoured and enjoyed, where you can connect with others while sipping a glass of red wine and marvelling at the majestic redwoods that serve as a stunning backdrop

While we feel there are a lot of things to cover in Sonoma, we listed down some of the best activities to explore during your first visit. If you need a more detailed read, check out 17 Best Things to Do in Sonoma.

Explore Sonoma’s Wineries

There is an unparalleled sense of tranquillity in immersing oneself in the California countryside. In recent years, Sonoma’s wineries have been a major tourist draw. With 60,000 acres of vineyards sprawling across the region, it’s easy to get lost in the enchanting wine regions while exploring a diverse range of wine varietals.

Many of the wineries in Sonoma are family-owned establishments, offering fascinating insights into the behind-the-scenes processes of wine production.

Here’s a handy guide from Sonoma County to explore all the distinct wine regions. If you’re looking for Instagram-able places to post amazing stories, then explore the unexplored hipster wineries of Sonoma.

Is it better to visit Sonoma or Napa?
Napa is one of the world’s most renowned wineries. Considering its popularity, Napa pulls in millions of travellers every year, out of which, most are day-trippers & weekend getawayers. On the other hand, Sonoma is a quieter, more relaxed and family-owned winery offering a laid-back wine-tasting experience. It’s also cheaper than Napa, which gives a good reason to tick off Sonoma.

Experience Sonoma’s Gastronomy

Sonoma is a paradisical place for all food lovers. The region is renowned for its “farm-to-table” concept, emphasizing the use of fresh, seasonal produce. While joining guided winery tours in the area allows you to taste some of these culinary delights, there are also exceptional restaurants in the city that showcase the best of Sonoma’s gastronomy. Notable establishments include John Ash & Co, the Tides Wharf & Restaurant, Folktable, Barndiva, and Single Thread.

Sonoma Eateries | 17 Top-Notch Restaurants in Sonoma County

Stay at Sonoma’s Cabins

If you’re looking to spend an overnight stay in the Californian region, then look no further than Sonoma. Home to gorgeous cabins, you’ll be completely overwhelmed by the options it presents. The cabins seamlessly blend rustic charm with modern contemporary decor and vintage interiors, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Plus, most of these cabins are located within the winery region of Sonoma – so it’s a great option to explore the surroundings.

Where to stay – Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn | Seven Branches Venue & Inn

Mendocino, California

Mendocino, a charming coastal village, is perched atop California’s coast, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. While it may be small in size, its sheer beauty should not be underestimated. Despite its remote getaway feel, Mendocino is actually one of the most visited villages in California.

Mendocino perfectly encapsulates the allure of the rugged California Coast, showcasing sweeping views of the coastline, towering redwood forests, picturesque saltbox houses, scenic viewpoints, and coastal hiking trails. This idyllic village is a haven for nature lovers and provides ample opportunities to explore the stunning surroundings. A visit to Mendocino is truly an experience that captures the essence of California’s coastal beauty.

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

Nestled on the cliff of Mendocino Coast, Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park is a main highlight of this quaint village. The lighthouse, constructed in 1909, stands proudly overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Since its construction, the historic buildings around the lighthouse have been restored.

One particular highlight is the Blacksmith & Carpentry Shop, which now hosts a marine science exhibit, offering fascinating insights into the coastal ecosystem. Additionally, you can visit the Lighthouse Museum to learn about the history and significance of the lighthouse itself.

Mendocino Headlands State Park

The stunning Mendocino Headlands State Park is known for its jaw-dropping coastal views, colourful wildflowers, and dense vegetation. Along the buffs, you would find easy walking trails which allow you to soak in panoramic ocean views. The towering arches and sea caves make quite a spectacle to capture amazing photos. Additionally, a visit to Big River Beach is highly recommended, as it maintains a surprising sense of tranquillity and remains uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the beach’s serenity to the fullest.

Mendocino’s Coastal Hikes

With numerous state and local parks around Mendocino, it’s pretty obvious that you’d be itching to go on an adventurous hike. Hiking is ingrained in the outdoor culture of this village, and the coastal hikes in Mendocino are absolutely stunning. The one which we really want to highlight is Van Damme State Park. Located in Little River, this park is a nature paradise offering various difficult trails. The Fern Canyon Trail is the most popular of all.

Some other parks you could explore include Russian Gulch State Park (known for Fern Canyon and Waterfall Loop Trail) and Hendy Woods State Park (popular for its Discovery Trail).

Where to stay – Seagull Inn Bed & Breakfast | Seafoam Lodge

Redwoods National Park

Redwoods National Park is one of the breathtaking places to visit in our San Francisco to Seattle road trip. Home to the tallest trees, redwood forests, spectacular beaches, and stunning vantage points – it’s an incredible experience for first-time visitors to witness the beauty of Redwoods National Park.

Guide | Ultimate Guide to Visiting Redwoods National Park

What is the best time to visit Redwoods National Park?
Due to the mild coastal temperatures of this region, Redwoods National Park is a year-round destination. Winter months tend to be the wettest period of all, so hiking may not be a suitable option to consider. However, if you’re looking to enjoy the best of all activities, then consider travelling between May and September.

While there’s a plethora of things to do at Redwoods, we want you to have a delightful experience by visiting the most famous landmarks. Here are some of the notable ones –

Visit Stout Grove

Stout Grove is an absolute must-visit location in Redwoods National Park. Featuring 300-foot redwoods, it stands as one of the most photographed groves on Earth. These majestic trees can be found in the northernmost part of the park, specifically in Jedediah Smith Redwoods. While reaching this destination requires a bit of a hike, the effort is undoubtedly worth it for the awe-inspiring experience it offers.

Explore Fern Canyon

Are you a fan of the Jurassic Park movies? If so, you may already be familiar with this location. Known for its natural beauty, Fern Canyon has made several appearances in the franchise. True to its name, the canyon is adorned with lush ferns, with a gentle creek flowing through its narrow expanse. As you make your way to Fern Canyon, be sure not to miss the nearby attractions of Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Redwood Creek Overlook.

Gold Bluffs Beach

There is nothing quite as serene as camping on Gold Bluffs Beach, with its picturesque view of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun sets, the skies transform, painting the horizon with dramatic shades of orange and pink. These evenings offer a breathtaking sight that is truly unforgettable.

Where to stay| A Handy Guide to Redwoods Lodging

Ashland, Oregon

Located in the scenic region of Southern Oregon, Ashland is one of the most beautiful & creative towns in America. Despite its small size, this charming city boasts a remarkable array of galleries, theatres, and restaurants that are scattered throughout.

Moreover, Ashland is surrounded by breathtaking canyons and stunning parks, adding to its natural beauty. One highlight not to be missed is the internationally renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which takes place annually and offers an unforgettable experience for theatre enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Here are two things which I feel you should definitely visit in Ashland –

Explore Pacific Crest Trail

Stretching from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail is an awe-inspiring long-distance trail covering a distance of 4,270 km. It showcases some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, towering peaks, and breathtaking wilderness. We suggest covering a certain portion of this trail by hiking through the sweeping valleys of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Along this path, expect to cross unexplored vantage points and staggering scenes.

Visit Lithia Park

Lithia Park is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Ashland. Home to colourful plants and flowerbeds, the park sprawls a large area boasting a vivid atmosphere. Established in 1892, Lithia Park has expanded over time and now extends up to the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains. All you gotta do is take a self-exploratory walk in this beautiful park.

Where to stay – Lithia Springs Resort | The Bard’s Inn | Stratford Inn | Timbers Inn & Suites

Crater Lake, Oregon

Located an hour and a half’s drive north of Ashland, Crater Lake, also known as ‘Lake Majesty,’ is not only the deepest lake in America but also one of the cleanest in the world. As you journey through the densely forested areas of the state, you will see the breathtaking sights of Crater Lake, which appears absolutely stunning, especially on a bright sunny day.

Crater Lake was formed after the collapse of Mount Mazama nearly 7,000 years ago. The dramatic formation resulted in the creation of the deepest blue lake in America. Today, the lake is encircled by rugged and crumbling cliffs, adding to its picturesque and rugged charm.

Although Crater Lake National Park is said to be a year-round destination, we didn’t really have a pleasing experience during winter. Despite the facilities being open, the visibility of the lake was severely limited, resulting in poor views from all angles. Therefore, we suggest planning your visit during the summer, particularly in June, to maximize your experience.

Read More | A Handy Guide to Crater Lake National Park

Where to stay – Crater Lake Resort | Dawson House Lodge

Bend, Oregon

Nestled at the foothills of the Cascades, Bend is a charming and lively town brimming with amazing outdoor opportunities. From skiing and mountain biking to hiking and kayaking, there are plenty of adventures to invigorate your heart. This picturesque mountain town is renowned for its abundance of river trails, stunning lakes, and a high desert climate. It’s a destination you can’t afford to miss while exploring on our San Francisco to Seattle road trip.

Here are some amazing things to do in Bend, Oregon –

Explore Bend’s Brewpubs

When you’re done enjoying all the adventure activities in Bend, make your way to one of the town’s brewpubs to savour the local craft beers. You will be amazed by the multitude of breweries this small town has to offer. These local hotspots are not only renowned for their exceptional craft beer skills, but they also provide tasting experiences, guided tours, and entertaining events to enhance your visit.

Read | 18 Killer Breweries and Brewpubs in Bend, Oregon

A few of our personal favourite includes –

• Boneyard Beer Pub: Great nightlife scene, comfy outdoor seating.
• Crux Fermentation Project: Known for amazing food bites with craft beers
• Boss Rambler Beer Club: Known for smacking classic burgers.

Go Hiking

Bend cannot go unexplored without venturing its popular hiking trails. The Green Lakes Trail and Broken Top are among the most renowned trails in the region Moreover, there are leisurely pathways designed specifically for kids, allowing them to embark on their own little adventures. Additionally, bikes and scooters are available for rent, providing alternative ways to explore these trails.

Portland, Oregon

From exploring the vibrant urban core of Downtown to getting lost in the labyrinth of Powell’s City of Books, Portland offers a plethora of fascinating activities to engage in. It is one of our favourite cities to visit and serves as an excellent starting point for travellers planning to continue their journey to Mount Rainier and Seattle.

Things to do in Portland –

Explore the Peal District

Pearl District has revamped itself into this new avatar of luring hordes of tourists. It’s one of Portland’s trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its remarkable assortment of bookstores, boutiques, modern cafes, and charming galleries. Initially, it was occupied by factories and textile industries, but they have now been converted into airy open-air condos and restaurants, adding to the neighbourhood’s charm.

Visit the Portland Japanese Garden

Sometimes, it’s quite essential to get away from the hustle & bustle of city life, and that’s precisely what Portlanders do by taking a brief respite at the Portland Japanese Garden. The entire space is filled with decorated lawns, which are perfectly manicured with paved pathways, overlooking small waterfalls and fountains. While exploring the garden, be sure not to miss visiting Umami Cafe, where you can indulge in traditional Japanese tea. It’s a great way to unwind yourself with serene views.

Where to stay in Portland – The Paramount Hotel | Hotel Lucia | Heathman Hotel

Mount Rainer National Park

Isn’t Mount Rainer on everyone’s road trip bucket list? If it isn’t, it’s high time to start planning a trip to this magnificent place. Located 85 miles southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainer National Park is the most renowned natural landmark in Washington State.

On the one hand, visiting an active volcano can be a daunting experience, but on the other hand, nothing can compare to the visual spectacle offered by this remarkable place. It is truly worth it to take in the panoramic views of the 26 glaciers that adorn the mountains.

When is the best time to visit Mount Rainer?
The best time to visit Mount Rainier is during the summer season. The temperatures are warm, providing ideal conditions for exploring the alpine meadows. To witness the vibrant display of wildflowers in full bloom, it is recommended to visit the park in the early weeks of August.

Mount Rainier National Park encompasses five distinct regions: Mowich Lake/Carbon River, Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, and Sunrise/White River. For a first-time traveller, we recommend dedicating a couple of days to exploring the Paradise and Sunrise regions of the park. These areas are highly popular for good reason, as they offer a hiking paradise for adventure lovers of all kinds.

Where to stay – Packwood Lodge & Cabins | Cowlitz River Lodge

Seattle, Washington

Despite being overshadowed by towering buildings and skyscrapers, Seattle is gloriously blessed with an abundance of lakes, forests, islands, and majestic mountain peaks. We have visited this place numerous times, and yet the city never fails to impress us with its wide range of activities and attractions.

In Seattle, you can embark on a journey to the bustling Pike Place Market, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of its diverse neighbourhoods, savour a glass of wine, attend captivating live concerts and shows, indulge in the thriving culinary scene, and so much more. No matter what activities you engage in or which places you explore, you will always find that there’s never enough of this dynamic and bustling city.

Visit Capitol Hill

Among all the neighbourhoods, Capitol Hill in Seattle stands out as the coolest and most vibrant. With dozens of bars, clubs, and a thriving culinary scene, this area is perfect for letting loose and immersing yourself in the active nightlife. Capitol Hill is also well known for hosting live concert events and performances, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Explore Discovery Park

Discovery Park, located in the Magnolia neighbourhood, is the largest park in Seattle. It serves as a gathering place for people of all age groups to meet, interact, share stories, and engage in meaningful conversations. Despite the park being busy with visitors throughout the day, it still manages to exude a serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings. It’s a wonderful place for visitors to unwind, relax, and enjoy a delightful picnic, providing a soothing respite during their journey.

Seattle Art Museum

Visiting the Seattle Art Museum is an absolute must for first-time visitors exploring the city. It would be a significant oversight to not notice the striking 48-foot-tall Hammering Man Sculpture located just outside the entrance. The museum showcases permanent art collections as well as temporary exhibits that span various artistic fields, including contemporary pieces, European art, and Native American art.

Where to stay in Seattle – Belltown Inn | Mayflower Park Hotel | Seattle Gaslight Inn

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

In addition to the suggested activities, we highly recommend considering the following guided tours to enhance your San Francisco to Seattle road trip. These experiences complement the itinerary beautifully and have the potential to elevate your overall visiting experience:

Further Readings & Resources

New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops

A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –

California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip

The post 10 Most Beautiful San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops appeared first on Travel Realms.

From the grand spectates of Chicago to the natural wonders of Yellowstone, discover the best of America’s wilderness, expansive landscapes, and deep forested areas. Considered one of the experiential journeys, Chicago to Yellowstone road trip is a journey of a lifetime. It’s a culmination of America’s finest states and finest attractions. This road trip brings to life some niche experiences & discoveries you could never imagine. 

About Chicago and Yellowstone National Park

Chicago, the urban dense city, is one of the most populated areas of America. It’s the largest city in the Midwest, housing more than 2.7 million people. When you consider a town of this size, it’s easy to guess that Chicago boasts unique touristic experiences, homely culture, and a variety of things to do. Furthermore, Chicago’s world-class museums, historical landmarks, architectural gems, and luxury boutiques make the city fun to explore.

On the other hand, Yellowstone marks a symbol of tranquillity, peace, and calmness. The wilderness and rugged landscapes of the national park make Yellowstone one of the must-visit destinations in the United States. The park is also home to lush green valleys, canyons, and exciting natural wonders that amaze visitors with their awe-inspiring fascinations.

We’ve got a couple of handy in-depth starter guides to help you understand the beautiful landscape of Yellowstone National Park:

Yellowstone Itinerary: Find out how to spend one to five days in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Lodging & Cabins: Discover where to stay affordably in Yellowstone.
Yellowstone Experiences & Attractions: Explore 19 amazing things to do in Yellowstone NP with kids.

Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip
The drive to Yellowstone National Park from Chicago is pretty extensive. You will know the drive time & routes in the below sections. However, the entire journey comprises three short road trips in itself. They are namely: Chicago to Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Mount Rushmore (204 miles), and Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone (385 miles).

Pro Tip: If you want to avoid long road trips, we suggest picking up one of the routes to explore the region. South Dakota to Mount Rushmore is the most preferred and scenic route out of all.

How to Plan Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip

This section will brief you on all the important aspects of planning a perfect Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. From understanding the drive routes to driving times for each of the routes, you’ll get a thorough idea of how to reach Yellowstone comfortably.

Best Route to Reach Chicago to Yellowstone

The drive from Chicago to Yellowstone cuts through four American states Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. As you start from Chicago, take the I-90 W to reach Sioux Falls. Continue driving down I-90 W till you reach Mount Rushmore. To continue toward Yellowstone National Park, there are three primary routes to choose from: the Beartooth Highway, Cloud Peak Skyway, and the Bighorn Scenic Byway. I highly recommend taking the Beartooth Highway, as it’s one of the most scenic drives from Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone.

Find out more | Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone – An In-depth Guide.

Driving Times for Chicago to Yellowstone

The drive from Chicago to Yellowstone is 1340 miles (2156 km). If you were to drive non-stop, arriving would take approximately 21hr 15mins. The route cuts through the scenic landscapes of Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Since you’ll be stopping at several stops to enjoy the state’s attractions, we recommend spanning your journey seven to ten days.

Pro tip: To cover a road trip like Chicago to Yellowstone, you need ample time. Most people say you can cover this route within three to five days (including pit stops), but we do not recommend that. Consider spending a minimum of seven days exploring the best of each American state. The maximum you can spare for this journey is ten days.

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car for your Chicago to Yellowstone road trip, I suggest Rentalcars.com. I’ve personally used their service and have found it incredibly affordable compared to other rental operators. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your entire journey.

Chicago to Yellowstone National Park Map

Here’s a driving route map to reach Yellowstone National Park –

Best Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip Stops

Explore Urban Chicago

From serious adventures to fun-seeking thrills, there’s always something special that you’d find in Chicago. If you’re visiting this Midwestern metropolis for the first time, then you’ll have the time of your life. The city is home to unique green spaces like Grant and Millennium Park, landmarks such as the Chicago Bean sculpture and Buckingham Fountain, and many world-class museums, pubs, and cafes.

However, this uplifting atmosphere of Chicago can easily overwhelm a tourist. Below are some of the recommended activities which you should definitely see or do on your first-ever visit –

Take a boat ride on Lake Michigan

Across four states of America: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin – Lake Michigan is a sheer beauty in terms of recreational activities and shimmering beaches. And with the backdrop of Chicago’s tall skyscrapers, the lake shines even more magnificently.

Read more | A Beginner’s Guide to Lake Michigan

One of the best ways to enjoy the city’s urban life is to take a boat ride around Lake Michigan. It’s a preferred way to explore the town while avoiding the busy summer crowds. Moreover, these scheduled boat trips run throughout the day, and they take you across the historical landmarks of Chicago. Some special boat trips always try an extra effort to give you a different perspective of Chicago.

Book activities | Recommended, most popular Lake Michigan tours.

Visit Chicago Observation Deck

The most touristy thing to do in Chicago is to visit the observation deck on the 94th floor of John Hancock Centre. Undoubtedly, it’s a recommended activity for those visiting the city for the first time. The panoramic views of Chicago’s urban jungle are a sight to behold.

Go on an architecture cruise

This is an experiential activity, as few visitors venture into the city to marvel at its architectural landmarks. And to gasp at historical grandeurs is worth spending money on and speaking of vantage points to view these gems? There’s none. But, the best way to explore them in their entirety is to travel waterways via the Chicago River

Must-Do Activity | Book a 1.5-hour guided Architectural Cruise of Chicago.

This guided tour’s notable structures include: Marina City Goldberg, Merchandise Mart, Willis Tower, Chicago Board of Trade Building, Lake Point Tower, and much more. The tour also includes hospitality of food & drinks.

Have lunch at Navy Pier

There’s no better place than Navy Pier in Chicago to relax and unwind. This iconic waterfront space houses renowned restaurants and cafes that serve multinational global cuisine. Apart from culinary scenes, visitors will thoroughly enjoy the shopping atmosphere. With luxury brands & boutiques lining up the pier, there’s no way you would go back empty-handed. Further to this exploration, countless walking & boat trips are scheduled throughout the day to take you in & around Chicago.

Where to stay: The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown | Millennium Knickerbocker | Hyatt Place Chicago

Looking for culinary food tours across Chicago?
Chicago’s Craft Brewery Tour: Experience the hippest breweries in Chicago.
Chinatown Food Walking Tour: Explore Chinatown in this 2.5-hour guided tour.
Chicago’s Gourmet Tour: Admire serene sets of Lake Michigan on this cruise gourmet tour.

Pro tip: Do take small halts during a long road trip
It’s highly advisable to take small pit stops while on a long, extensive road journey. For our road trip, the first distance i.e. Chicago to Sioux Falls is 574 miles. Hence, to break this route – we will be taking a stop at Rockford and Madison (Wisconsin).

Visit the towns of Rockford & Madison

A visitor passing through the state must notice the two famous towns of Wisconsin, Rockford, and Madison. Both these towns form an integral part of Wisconsin’s tourism and have been driving crazy amounts of tourists for over a decade.

Madison has five lakes, gourmet restaurants, 270 green parks, free museums, and amazing biking trails. Any outdoor person would absolutely love exploring Madison and experiencing its abundance of things. Below are some of the recommended things to do in Madison:

Explore Five Lakes: If you’ve got the time, look no further than its alluring lake beauty. Mendota, Monona, Wingra, Waubesa, and Kegonsa cover 15,000 acres of land filled with water-bound activities and experiences.

Hiking & Biking: Madison is known for its outdoors. Home to over 270 parks and 200 miles of bike trails, bring out your inner adventure to extensively explore the landscape of Madison.

Arts & Culture: Thumping beats are loud here at Madison. The bustling rock concerts, the peaceful art shows, and the peaceful museum exploration all add up to your experience.

Looking for more activities in Madison? Read this in-depth guide to find out more experiential activities best suited across all seasons. This will help you plan better in terms of visiting Madison in the right season.

As energetic as Madison is, Rockford is a quaint, peaceful town boasting calm surroundings, beautiful gardens, and world-class museums. It’s also one of the best places in Wisconsin to relax and unwind before you continue your journey toward Yellowstone National Park.

Visit the Anderson Japanese Gardens: One of the ‘to-do’ things in Rockford is to explore the tranquillity of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Set in a serene environment, the gardens are home to tiny waterfalls, pavilions, tea houses, and stone-paved paths. 

Cruise on the Rock River: Since Rockford is situated on the banks of the Rock River, one of the fun things to do is to take a short boat ride to explore the sights. The onboard guide will tell you about the town’s intriguing history and culture.

Where to stay: Radisson Hotel & Conference Center | Hampton Inn Rockford | Hampton Inn & Suites Madison

Discover the charm of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is among the most incredible places to stop by during your Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. It’s an important tourist destination in the entire South Dakota region and across the central states of America. In addition to its importance, visitors absolutely love staying at Sioux Falls. From exploring the town’s museums and historical landmarks to venturing out to discover the wilderness and beautiful hikes – there are plenty of things to do in Sioux Falls.

Sioux Falls can ultimately overwhelm you with its abundance of attractions & experiences. We thought of shortlisting them so that you spend time visiting only the best ones. Here are some of the must-do things during your first visit to Sioux Falls –

Visit Falls Park

Are you wondering why the name Sioux Falls is? Well, there’s a reason behind it. And this reason is pretty valid.

Sioux Falls is home to ancient rock formations through which a series of waterfalls passes. On average, 7400 gallons of water rush through these craggy rocks. Visitors can marvel at this raw landscape generated by South Dakato’s amazing geology setting.

To explore this waterfalls series, you must visit Falls Park. There are plenty of observation decks and 360-degree view platforms to make your viewing experience more pleasing. Those who love adrenaline fun can take bike rides across the trails spread across Falls Park. These biking trails offer tourists a closer look into the waterfalls. Towards the end of the course, a cafe is built amidst the remnants of an old power company.

Venture out on Sioux Falls Bike Trails

The only best way to explore Sioux Falls is through hiking & biking. These two are the most popular activities, and they justify every sightseeing venture you will do. Moreover, it’s an affordable source of exploration that can get you closer to all hidden gems spread across Sioux Falls.

Rent a bike through a local operator and get your adventure started. All bike trails are paved orderly, leading to some of the most beautiful sights of Sioux Falls. These loop trails cover almost 30 miles and circuit around the town. The most popular route is the Sioux Falls Bike Trail Loop. Considered for beginners, it’s a must-explore trail for all those who want to go easy on their adventure.

Explore Downtown Sioux Falls

After an exploration packed with beautiful scenery, it’s time to hit Downtown Sioux Falls. This bustling area houses some of the best restaurants, cafes, pubs, local museums, art galleries, and more. I personally like to sit and relax at a cafe while watching tourists hustling & shopping across the boutiques on the streets.

Where to stay: ClubHouse Hotel & Suites | Hilton Garden Inn | Hyatt Place Sioux Falls

Explore the rugged Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is one of the epic and underrated spots of South Dakota. The spellbinding scenery, gorgeous terrain, and sharp pinnacles create one of the most dramatic sights in America. Whether you’re an explorer, a hiker, or a photographer – you can spend weeks exploring the abundance of Badlands National Park.

Not to forget, the drive from Sioux Falls to Badlands National Park across the densely forested areas is truly remarkable. The journey itself justifies the beauty of South Dakota. Visitors will find this route extremely special.

Pro tip: Be ready for Badland’s rough terrain
Badlands National Park is known for its extreme summers and harsh winters. It’s advisable to carry essential clothing items and hiking equipment for your trip to Badlands. Furthermore, always keep a booster (energetic drink) or dry snacks to keep yourself pumped.

Here’s a brief info on the must-do things to see & experience in Badlands National Park –

Badlands National Park Loop Road

If you’ve only got a half-day to explore the sights of the Badlands, take the Badlands National Park Loop Road. Spanning over 30 miles, this circuit is one of the most-driven routes of the park. The amount of things to see across the loop road is simply magical. While it may take you only an hour to complete the loop, it will take you much longer (probably 5-6 hours) once you realize the amount of sightseeing stops this loop road has.

Badlands Loop Road is a proper, structured paved route that is easy to drive and follow. Once you start your journey, you’ll soon hit overlook points, scenic vantage platforms, and boardwalk trails. Make plenty of stops along the way to soak in the rugged interior charm of this backcountry.

Some notable places (overlooks) you shouldn’t miss include Pinnacles Overlook (known for incredible views), Yellow Hills of the Badlands (known for its yellow-coloured hill display), Yellow Moulds Overlook (known for its fossils & geological features), and Panorama Point (can’t miss this for sunrises and sunsets).

Please be a careful explorer while driving Badlands Loop Road. Road kills are common at this juncture. It’s advisable to maintain a safe distance (minimum 100ft) between your vehicle and the animal.

Hike the Notch Trail

Notch Trail is naturally built for kids and families. Being one of the best things to do in Badlands National Park, Notch Trail is a 1.5-miles round trip packed with exciting things to see. This facilitated trail runs across a scenic canyon, steep climb-up trails, ancient rock formations, and fossils. Furthermore, the area around the Notch Trail is indeed striking for sunset admirers. The slopes of Badlands mountains get completely bathed in orange hues.

Discover the Fossil Exhibit Trail

The Fossil Exhibit Trail takes you back in time by letting you discover the fossil exhibits of extinct creatures who once lived in this national park. The trail is the only place to learn about these discoveries while gaining meaningful knowledge about the fossils. The Fossil Exhibit Trail runs 2.5 miles long, with accessible boardwalks and paved routes, making it one of the must-explore areas.

Visit Homestead Overlook

Apart from all the overlooks you might’ve already seen from Badlands Loop Road, there’s one in particular that you should definitely see. Homestead Overlook is one of the natural gems of Badlands National Park. In contrast to the blue skies, the orange shades of the mountain slopes are a sight to admire! Oh, and you can also spot plenty of prairie in this region.

As mentioned, Badlands National Park is not limited to only the four experiences listed above. There’s a plethora of things to see & do. Here are some notable ones (you should definitely take time to explore): visiting Hay Butte Overlook, watching the sunsets from Big Badlands Overlook, spotting the Badlands Wall, and hiking the Door Trail.

How do I book hotels for this road trip?
Travel Realms partners with two of the leading hotel booking platforms: Booking.com & Hostelworld. For a traveller looking for a varied accommodation option, I suggest exploring stays at Booking.com. For those who prefer budgeted rooms, visit Hostelworld.

Wander the beautiful Custer State Park

Custer State Park is one of the awe-inspiring destinations of our Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. Nestled in the Black Hill region of the United States, the entire state park is filled with natural landmarks, towering peaks, scenic drives, and abundant wildlife.

Interestingly, Custer State Park is still known to a lot of people. It is less popular than Badlands National Park or Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. Even during summer, you won’t find its hiking trails crowded like the others. So easy; you can spend a couple of days exploring the majestic Custer State Park.

Some of the must-do activities in Custer State Park include:

Drive the Needles Highway

You absolutely can’t miss doing one thing in Custer State Park. And that’s driving the scenic Needles Highway. This 14-mile loop road forms part of the central South Dakota Highway 87. As the name implies, this picturesque circuit allows visitors to view world-famous granite zeniths. The entire Highway is adorned with narrow curves, long tunnels, and panoramic vantage points. Honestly, you’ll always need more of the views here.

Circle the Wildlife Loop Road

The Wildlife Loop Road is another must when visiting Custer State Park for the first time. It’s a long, stretched circuit road that cuts through pine-covered hills and grasslands. Since the road runs through the park’s forested areas, expect to see a wide range of unique wildlife. Some of them which you can spot are prairies, bison, bighorn sheep, coyotes, eagles, and hawks.

Fun Fact: Custer State Park was acclaimed as one of the World’s Top Ten Wildlife Destinations. Due to its incredible array of unique animal and bird species, the park has been a paradisical place for all wildlife photographers and explorers. The state park also has a dedicated wildlife reserve.

Visit Sylvan Lake

Nestled amidst the giant rock formations of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake is popularly known for its striking beauty and contrasting setting. The lake water shines brightly during the day, reflecting the blue hues of the clear skies. From a different angle, it looks as if the rock formations are holding out the water from spilling out.

Most visitors pass the Needles Highway, making it a quick pit stop for Sylvan Lake. However, it’s worth spending some time admiring the terrain that surrounds the water. The lake has a swimming beach and a beautiful 1-mile walking trail leading you to impressive scenic points. Other activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and picnicking are common.

Marvel at Mount Rushmore National Monument

Mount Rushmore is truly one of the monumental landmarks of our Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. It houses one of the world’s largest sculptures featuring the United States’ four presidents. The completion of the work was done by 1941, however, these 60-ft tall sculptures look as if they were recently carved.

Visitors often have Mount Rushmore National Monument listed down in their American bucket list experiences. And I think it should be for all, as the sight of these sculptures itself is so glorious. As a matter of fact, over 3 million tourists pay a visit here to view this patriotic site.

Popular things to do around Mount Rushmore National Monument:

Hike the Presidential Trail

This beginner-level walking trail is perfect for families travelling with kids. The whole path is filled with scenic vantage points that provide different angle views of the national monument. Moreover, walking the Presidential Trail takes you away from the hustle & bustle of the busy tourist crowd. It’s also relatively quieter during the mornings.

Join a Guided Excursion

The best way to explore Mount Rushmore in its entirety is to join a guided ranger tour. Led by expert rangers, these excursions offer deeper engagement and perspective into the political and environmental history of the area. The tour stops at several points covering explanations on various topics. You can visit the Visitor Centre at Mount Rushmore to book these tours.

Further Resource | These are some of the best accommodation options in Mount Rushmore.

Visit Devils Tower National Monument

Devil’s Tower National Monument is one of the important landmarks in the United States. This iconic site is sacred and holy to the Native Americans, as their tribal connections are strong to this monument. Annually, rituals and ceremonies are held by these tribal communities, where prayers are offered in remembrance of a person.

Well, apart from all its history, Devil’s Tower is a sight to marvel at. Being the first national monument in the U.S., the place has been a long-standing beauty to all visitors and locals. What makes the landmark more interesting is the fact that it has got numerous theories & mysterious stories. (I’ll leave this surprise for your exploration).

Two of my favourite things to do around Devils Tower National Monument include:

Hike the trails

If you could do one thing during your visit to the Devil’s Tower, it should be to explore the site’s amazing hiking trails. From beginner to moderate and difficult ones, there are routes designed for every adrenaline level. Of course, the most difficult ones require you to be physically fit – but it also guarantees you splendid views of the tower. Some of the options to try include: the Tower Trail (1.3 miles), Red Beds Trail (2.8 miles), South Side Trail (0.6 miles), and Joyner Ridge Trail (1.5 miles).

Go stargazing

Devil’s Tower National Monument is located in northeastern Wyoming, which is remotely away from any town or city, This eventually means the site is well protected from pollution. And nothing could be perfect than having a clear sky to gaze at the stars. During summers, the park officially launches its ranger-led night tours. Book them to experience one of the memorable nights.

How much time do you need?
Ideally, two to three hours is more than enough to spend at Devils Tower National Monument (unless you partake in activities like hiking or stargazing). This gives you ample time to explore the surroundings, marvel at the pinnacles of the landmark, capture photos, plus visit the visitor’s centre.

Discover Yellowstone National Park

We finally hit the last stop of our road trip i.e. Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking wonderland of geothermal activity, brimming with gorgeous terrain and abundant wildlife. It’s one of America’s most visited places year-round, with millions of tourists travelling & discovering the best sights within the park.

Though you may have visited some of the best stops on this road trip, but there’s nothing like Yellowstone. This national park is a culmination of all nature-based activities, making you indulge in them thoroughly. I’ve been to Yellowstone National Park a couple of times, and every time the place had a different experience stored for me. And that’s what I love the most about this park. No matter which season, you always have the fruitful joy of visiting Yellowstone.

I’ll list down a few things which should ultimately be on your bucket-list adventures. For a detailed experiential list, check out our 19 Friendly Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park with Kids.

Grand Prismatic Spring

The rainbow-coloured shades of Grand Prismatic Spring are a spectacular sight to watch. Being one of the main highlights of Yellowstone National Park, this geothermal pool has been a crowd-puller for ages. It’s also the most photographed landmark of the park. What’s more unique is the fact that Grand Prismatic Spring changes its colour every season. And to watch this sight, I suggest either taking the Boardwalk Trail through Midway Geyser Basin or heading to Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.

Old Faithful Geyser

One of the most recognizable landmarks of Yellowstone – the Old Faithful Geyser – is a natural hot spring that erupts at every 90 minutes interval. Even though it’s 150 years old, the eruption timings are pretty accurate. Usually, Old Faithful Geyser is always crowded. So, it won’t be a nice spectate to see the eruption. Instead, hike to the Observation Point to get overlooking views of the eruption. It’s a 1.1-mile trip, with an uphill that is moderate to walk upon.

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is a paradise located within Yellowstone National Park. The scenic drives, the majestic landscapes, and the abundant wildlife make this valley one of the must-visit places in the park. It’s often overlooked by travellers, as it’s located far away from the central sights, but if you make an effort – I promise you’ll be rewarded with surprising views. Alternatively, you can also look at these guided activities which take you in & around Lamar Valley. Well, you certainly won’t need to drive and you can keep yourself occupied marvelling at the outdoor wildlife.

Where to stay: Kelly Inn-West Yellowstone | Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone | Best Western Desert Inn

How to Plan Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a road trip is pretty straightforward. What isn’t so simple is its execution. Even to date, I sometimes struggle to compile everything and put it in a single plan. However, if researched and planned well, execution may seem like a cakewalk.

To help you out with your efforts, I’ve curated a sample 7-day itinerary for Chicago to Yellowstone road trip. Customize the below plan as per your requirement, preference and choice. But, more importantly, keep your plan flexible so that the entire road journey isn’t tiresome.

Chicago to Yellowstone National Park Itinerary

Day 1

Explore Chicago (sightseeing & exploration)
Chicago to Rockford, IL (1hr 33mins)
Rockford to Madison, WI (1hr 18mins)
Overnight at Madison.

Day 2

Depart Madison
Madison to Sioux Falls (6hr 35mins) – option to stay at Rochester
Explore Sioux Falls

You can either spend a day or two at Sioux Falls. Recommended duration is two days.

Day 3

Depart Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls to Badlands National Park (3hr 57mins)
Visit Badlands & surroundings
Overnight at Rapid City.

Day 4

Rapid City to Custer State Park (56 minutes)
Spend a day exploring the state park

Day 5

Head to Mount Rushmore National Monument (45 minutes)
Spend full-day exploring Mount Rushmore
Overnight at Keystore.

Day 6

Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone (9 hours)
Rest/ Overnight stay at Gardiner or Montana

Day 7

Explore Yellowstone National Park’s sights & wonders

Recommend stay at Yellowstone National Park is three days.

Voila! You’ve got your road trip set and your itinerary planned. It’s time to explore accommodation. Visit Booking.com to find affordable & luxury options for our Chicago to Yellowstone road trip.

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Our partnership with GetYourGuide brings out exclusive tours & experiences for you to choose from. Below are some of the recommended activities and guided excursions which perfectly compliments our Chicago to Yellowstone trip. Book them in advance and plan an exciting journey in the United States.

Further Readings & Resources

American road trips are fun, aren’t they? So, I’m sure you’ll love our other curated trips as well.

New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops

The post 8 Ultimate Stops on Chicago to Yellowstone Road Trip appeared first on Travel Realms.

From tiny fishing villages and towns to urban cities and suburbs, New England is one of the best regions to take road trips. The charming eastern side of the state traverses through six different regions of New England: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Maine.

All these states boast a different mix of culture, traditions, gastronomical cuisines, and unique urban trends. And the only best way to explore the forms of New England is through a road trip.

Though a first-time visitor to New England will need approximately three to four weeks to explore everything, one can still experience the best of them within a week. Most visitors don’t cover everything in one go but often spend some time relaxing at important places like Boston, Portsmouth, and Providence.

In this guide, I’ll cover one of the popular routes taken by every visitor who makes it to New England. New York to Maine road trip journeys through five states covering places like Stamford, Providence, Boston, Portland, and more.

With the natural landscapes of Acadia National Park, the experience of this epic road trip will truly lighten up. While the emphasis will be on covering most of the highlights, I’ve ensured that you get a detailed list of all the top attractions and activities.

So without further ado, let’s get started!

How to Plan New York to Maine Road Trip

In this section, you’ll find some important tips on how to plan a best road trip across New England. Below info will specifically focus on our New York to Maine route, as you can later plan it thoroughly before travelling.

Best Route to Reach Maine from New York

The best route to reach Maine depends on the places you stop by. Following our plan, you’ll have to take the I-95 N and CT-15 N from New York to Hartford. From Hartford, we take a slight detour to cover the states of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Follow the route of I-84 E and I-90 E till Boston; then, you’ll be back again on I-95 N to reach your final destination, Maine.

The best driving route for New York to Maine depends on your travel itinerary. If you need to follow the course we suggested, ensure that the places you include in your travel plan are closer. Some detours are fine as long as the sites are not far away.

Read More | If you need a detailed info on how to reach Maine from New York via other transport modes, then I suggest visiting this page. This will help you better understand routes and public transport options.

Driving Times for New York to Maine

The drive from New York to Maine is 488 miles (785 km). If you were to drive non-stop, it would take approximately 7hr 12mins to arrive. However, we don’t recommend a direct journey, as it’s best to throw in stops throughout your entire road trip. Consider spanning your schedule across five days to ensure you visit top places.

Travel Tip | We highly recommend taking out a weeks’ time to explore New England. This is more than enough to discover offbeat places, top attractions, and niche activities.

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car in the United States, I suggest Rentalcars.com. It’s one of the best rental service I’ve ever come across, offering affordable vehicles for the said duration. With max saftey assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your New England road trip.

New York to Maine Road Trip Map

Here’s an overlook at the driving route to reach Maine (including road trip stops) –

New York to Maine Road Trip Stops

Stamford, CT

Located 40 miles north of New York, Stamford is the third largest city in Connecticut State. Known to house fortune companies and large business hubs, the city has massively grown its tourism presence. From beautiful city parks and museums to amazing walking trails and pristine beaches – Stamford is one of the great places to stop by during your New York to Maine road trip.

Stamford amazingly holds a significant number of things to see and do. I would suggest staying overnight to experience this beautiful town’s diversity. Below are some of my recommendations that you can include in your road trip plan – 

Cove Island Park

Located on Long Island Sound, this park is one of the best places to relax and unwind. Who would have expected to find a place like Cove Island Park with a beach and a garden in a busy city like Stamford? In the earlier days, locals used the park to gather missing house stray livestock. Today, it’s a bustling area filled with pretty sailboats, well-designed walk tracks, cycling trails, and huge playgrounds.

Note: Cove Island Park charges $25 per car for parking. Considering the fee, it’s a lot on pocket just to pay for parking. However, if you want to stay on a tight budget – you could always choose to park your car somewhere else nearby to Cove Island Park.

Stamford Museum & Nature Centre

If you’re a history buff like me, then you’d obviously love Stamford Museum & Nature Centre. Packed with arts, culture, nature, and agricultural info – the museum is best known for providing exciting insights about the city’s past timeline. It also houses a planetarium and a large four-story observatory for children to interact with various displays. You can check their calendar for all future events.

Mianus River Park

If you’re in Stamford, you certainly can’t miss exploring Mianus River Park. Featuring a wealth of activities, hiking trails, and incredible wildlife, you could easily spend half a day wandering these verdant woods. The hiking tracks are well-designed, which makes it ideal for all beginners to try and test their physical well-being. Most of these trails lead you to vibrant spots of the river park, which are pretty photogenic.

Places to stay: Hilton Stamford Hotel | Hampton Inn & Suites | Stamford Marriot Hotel & Spa

What’s more to visit? If you can add an extra day to Stamford, then do not miss a visit to The Palace Theatre, Half Full Brewery, and Fort Stamford Park – Goodbody Garden.

New Haven, CT

Home to the historic Yale University, New Haven is proud of its history and features distinctive shops, old museums, and classic theatres. It’s one of the best places to visit in New England, especially if you want to know more about the town’s exciting history.

Distance from Stamford to New Haven: 44 minutes (41.6 miles)

While Yale University might have officially introduced New Haven to the world, there’s much to explore beyond the campus arena. Yes, it’s often a traditional schedule to walk the university grounds and explore its heritage, but you can also tour other experiences the town offers.

New Haven’s age-old restaurants, modern bars, barbecue shacks, and traditional pizzas elevate your experience of staying in this lively town. I’ve listed some of the top things to do in New Haven, which you can undoubtedly add to your itinerary.

Explore Yale University

There’s no better place than Yale to start your exploration of New Haven. Dating back to the 16th century, the university still holds its roots and delivers an enriching experience on touring its inner & outer grounds. Being one of the reputed institutions, Yale is widely known for its notable alums and vast achievements. While you’re free to wander the campus on your own, I suggest taking a free walking tour of Yale University. It’s the best way to know the history, interesting insights, and unique admirable things.

Inside the Yale | Yale University spans a vast area featuring many in-house attractions such as Sterling Memorial Library, Yale Center for British Art, and Yale University Art Gallery. Do take out an entire day to explore the suggested places in their entirety.

Visit Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History

One of the exciting things to do at Yale University is to visit the Peabody Museum, which houses permanent collections of dinosaurs. From skeleton bones and fossils to educational info on species, the museum is a great place to wander for families and their children.

Explore shops at Yale’s alley

Right around the corner from Yale University, you’ll find a good mix of modern & traditional shops. The entire lane features an eclectic fusion of brands that deliver excellent retail therapy. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy delicious lunch or dinner.

Wander off at Little Italy

As the name suggests, the neighbourhood is home to some of the best restaurants in New Haven. You’ll certainly smell the aromas of hot bruschetta and flavourful ravioli as you walk by the street. And if you need to get the authentic Italian experience, indulge in the famous pizzas at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana.

Places to stay: The Study at Yale | Omni New Haven Hotel

Hartford, CT

Hartford is one of the most underrated places to explore in New England. But, by all means, it is my favorite place to discover world-class art galleries, the oldest of museums, historic buildings, and charming pubs and bars. Hartford is well-known for its history, but the modernism it showcases is simply epic.

Distance from New Haven to Hartford: 39 minutes (38.8 miles)

Hartford has left a legacy to house notable leaders like Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Their imprint shines brightly through museums, galleries, and workshops even today. Below you’ll find some of the best places to visit in Hartford, CT.

Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

Founded in 1842, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is one of the oldest museums in the United States. Housing an extensive collection, the museum is a haven for those interested in exploring brilliant pieces of artwork. Most of these paintings have been done by contemporary artists and French Impressionists. If you talk about the size of the museum, it’s spread across an area of 196,000 square feet. So, you’ll need plenty of time to explore and partake in many of the museum’s events and exhibitions.

Cruise On The Connecticut River

If you’re lucky to find yourself on a bright sunny day in Hartford, then there’s no better way than to cruise past some of the beautiful highlights of the town. Cruising the Connecticut River gives a different perspective of viewing Hartford’s amazing sights. These cruise trips offer informative guides and a delicious onboard meal to enjoy a short experience.

Connecticut Science Center

Travelling with kids to Hartford? Look no further than Connecticut Science Center, which houses intriguing exhibits and artifacts. The center features 154,000 square feet of area, and everyone can enjoy exciting science stuff. One of the must-visit places inside the center is the Exploring Space gallery. It offers viewers a close-up look at the moon crater and space objects. On the other hand, the Sight and Sound Experience is a modern-day exhibit combining art, music, and science presentations.

Accommodation: Find out the best budgeted places to stay in Hartford, CT.

What’s more? Hartford is all about history. Take a day out to explore other popular places like The Mark Twain House & Museum, Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, Connecticut State Capitol, and Museum of Connecticut History.

Providence, RI

Providence is a perfect destination to experience the best of Rhode Island. Being the largest city, there’s always a discovery that visitors enjoy during their travels. Localities from New York often treat Providence as their weekend getaway place to enjoy the architecture, nightlife, culture, and unique culinary scenes.

Distance from Hartford to Providence: 1hr 35mins (94 miles)

I recommend spending a full day at Providence before you head to your next destination. Some of the activities or places you can explore include –

Visit Roger Williams Park

Being one of the major tourist attractions of Providence, Roger Williams Park graciously hosts 400 acres of land comprising a planetarium, a zoo, and natural history museums. Walking trails around the park make it easy for a tourist to explore iconic landmarks. The best spot is the 18th-century cottage. All-in-all, Roger Williams Park is a great place to start your exploration.

Tour the famous RISD Museum

A visit to Providence in Rhode Island is complete with making it to the RISD Museum. Founded in 1877, the museum is home to more than 100,000 pieces of artifacts worldwide. Right from collections of ancient art to intriguing sculptures and mosaics, you’ll find a vast display site of objects to browse through.

RISD Museum Fee | $17 for Adults, $12 for senior citizens, and free for youth under age 18.

Some other attractions which you can cover within a day in Providence include: Providence Performing Arts Center, Rhode Island Seafood Festival (September), and Rhode Island State Capitol.

Boston, MA

It’s time to hit Boston, finally! I suggest leaving Providence early in the morning so that you can utilize most of your daytime exploring the city’s top highlights.

Boston thrives on art, culture, history, and nightlife. There’s a plethora of things to see and do, making you stay a couple of days more to experience all of it. Visitors often need a separate itinerary for Boston to cover everything they want to see. And it ideally makes sense because the city houses numerous attractions worth visiting.

Boston is often regarded as a place for history buffs because of its past significant events like Boston Tea Party. However, looking at the city right, you’ll see the urban lifestyle completely shadowing those events. Yet, some museums and galleries have preserved the originality of Boston’s historical events. For modern-day folks like us, the city impresses with its cutting-edge restaurants, unique performances, harbor cruises, and popular events.

New York to Boston | Journey through the heart of New England in this epic weekend getaway trip to Boston. Discover thrumming activities, bustling museums, and picturesque settings of the beautiful country road.

Top things to do in Boston, MA –

The Freedom Trail

One of the most touristy things to do in Boston is to walk the 2.5-mile-long stretch of the Freedom Trail. The path ventures between 16 historic sites in Boston, and the trail journeys through sections of the city that are unmatched in beauty. Some of the iconic things you’ll see on the Freedom Trail are King’s Chapel, Old State House, Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall, Old Corner Bookstore, Park Street Church, and Old North Church. Visit this page to read the detailed list.

Relax at Boston Common

Boston has its own Central Park in the form of Boston Common. If you’ve had a long day exploring the city, then head to Boston Common. Being one of the oldest public parks in America, the place is well-known for hosting recreational activities and events.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

It’s one of the prettiest museums I’ve ever seen. When you visit any museum, you often appreciate the artwork, displays, and exhibits stored. But Isabella Stewart Gardner will change how you look at museums. This photogenic place is on everyone’s bucket list, only since it looks gorgeous. The courtyard is decorated with gardens, and small trees, which have been designed nicely with patios, textiles, and archways.

Places to stay: Boston Park Plaza | The Verb Hotel | The Godfrey Hotel Boston

Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth is one of the picturesque towns of New England. Nestled in the state of New Hampshire, the town has a lively sense of culture and nightlife that visitors thoroughly enjoy. Although it’s a small idyllic town, it still buzzes loudly at any time of the year.

Distance from Boston to Portsmouth: 1hr 5mins (61.6 miles)

Go shopping

The best way to explore Portsmouth is to go shopping. The energetic Downtown Portsmouth houses some of the state most amazing boutiques and shops. Walk down any side of the street, and you’ll see a variety of stores displaying clothes, antiques, local souvenirs, books, jewelry, and much more. Join any free walking tours of the Market Square to explore hidden galleries, old-fashioned stores, and gift shops.

Relax at the waterfront

The Portsmouth harbor offers a spectacular viewing experience of the Piscataqua River. Enjoy a delicious lunch by the river, or take a guided tour along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail. The entire path runs through local historic sites and scenic vantage points, which provide a beautiful walking experience of the coast.

Enjoy local cuisine

Portsmouth has a reputation for hosting lip-smacking culinary food. Whether you’re looking to fine dine or a casual bite, the town will satisfy you with its options. Head to Lexie’s Joint, which specializes in traditional in-house burgers, or Shio, which guarantees a soulful Japanese meal. If you need help deciding where to head, look at some dining options.

Portland, Maine

Maine is one of the populous states of New England, and there’s no better exploration spot than Portland to start your venture. Filled with pure beauty and reputable sites, Portland is a summer-getaway destination for most localities. From extensive coastlines to far-stretched beaches, the town can offer more than a little to up your summer experience.

Distance from Portsmouth to Portland: 51 minutes (52.2 miles)

While there’s no escape from the summer crowds, Portland still remains an unmissable destination in Maine. The streets, the beaches, and the parks are far more crowded than you’d expect, but it’s okay to compromise on it. If Portland’s points of interest and attractions interest you, you shouldn’t bother about visitors crowding it.

Best things to do in Portland, Maine – 

Visit Judith

Based in Downtown Portland, Judith is home to world-class restaurants and bars that aim to deliver a perfect dining experience. The pubs in this area (literally) brighten up the entire atmosphere at night. In addition to its gastronomy, Judith marks itself as a retail harbor to house some of the most luxurious & well-known brands.

Portland Head Lighthouse

The lighthouse has been the main point of interest in Portland. Perched atop the cliff of Cape Elizabeth’s in Fort Williams Park, the lighthouse sits conveniently overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Plenty of walking trails run alongside the coastline, offering scenic vantage lookouts.

Eastern Promenade

During the evenings, the Eastern Promenade of Portsmouth offers the best views of Casco Bay. With a wide-open space with busy tourists, this waterfront is one of the best places in town to relax and unwind. Furthermore, there are paddleboats and kayaks for visitors to try water-based activities.

Accommodation: These are some of the best places to stay in Portland, Maine.

What’s more? Take an entire day out to explore top highlights of Portland including: Portland Museum of Art, Portland Observatory, Luna Rooftop Bar, Maine Brews Crews, and Old Port.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Visiting Acadia National Park is one of the highlights of our New York to Maine road trip. Despite being small, the national park predominantly occupies a vast area of Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Given the name ‘desert,’ visitors often think of this national park as having barren landscapes. However, it’s quite contrary to the belief most people have.

Acadia National Park teems with natural beauty that showcases rising cliffs from the sea intertwined with small fishing villages. The lush green forests make a pathway to the granite mountains with steep slopes, making the surroundings look more vibrant. A deep exploration of Acadia National Park guarantees the best scenic views and a culmination of natural elements like lakes, meadows, marshes, and a vast ocean.

How to reach? From your last stop i.e. Portland, its 174 miles via I-295 N and I-95 N to reach the national park. To travel within the park, I would recommend staying in one of the villages of the island and to use scheduled shuttle bus that runs daily across the circuit. Visit this link to get more info on the public transport.

Approximately 3-4 million visitors explore Acadia National Park every year. And that’s honestly a pretty good number. Since the park has so much to offer, even the locals living nearby in Maine and New York often find themselves returning time and again to explore its vastness.

Recommended | Need more info on how & when to visit? Read this handy travel guide to Acadia National Park.

How to Plan New York to Maine Road Trip Itinerary

When planning a road trip, the most challenging thing is compiling every stop and putting it inside a plan. Having a detailed schedule helps, but sometimes it’s good to keep your itinerary flexible. To help you out with your efforts, I’ve curated a sample 8-day itinerary for New York to Maine road trip. You can customize the plan, tweak it or discard any places you like from the schedule. But, more importantly, keep your plan flexible so that the entire road journey is smooth.

New York to Maine Itinerary

Day 1

Depart from New York
New York to Stamford (53 mins)
Explore Stamford
Stamford to New Haven (46 mins)
Overnight at New Haven

Day 2

Full-day exploration of New Haven
Overnight at New Haven

Day 3

New Haven to Hartford (40 mins)
Explore Hartford and visit main sites
Hartford to Providence (1hr 36mins)
Overnight at Providence

Day 4

Explore activities and experiences of Providence
Overnight at Providence

Day 5

Providence to Boston (1hr 18mins)
Opt to do activities in Boston
Overnight stay

Day 6

Half-day exploration of Boston’s highlights
Boston to Portsmouth (1hr 5mins)
Enjoy nightlife of Portsmouth
Overnight stay

Day 7

Portsmouth to Portland (52 mins)
Half-day exploration of Portland
Overnight stay at Portland (or near Acadia National Park)

Day 8

Full-day exploration of Acadia National Park

The above 8-day sample itinerary comprises of all the places listed in this guide. In addition, you can also checkout our next section to book guided tours and day-trips.

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

With our partnership with GetYourGuide, you can book addtional excursions and guided day-trips at affordable prices. Some of these experiences are well-curated in order to match any existing travel plan. Below are some my recommendations that can compliment our New York to Maine road trip –

Further Readings & Resources

New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops

A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –

California: 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip

The post 8 Spectacular Spots on New York to Maine Road Trip appeared first on Travel Realms.

California is home to varied landscapes, scenic roads, amazing coastal viewpoints, and an abundance of American native wildlife. It’s one of the country’s most glorious states that generously hosts many energetic experiences and touristic activities. And the only best way to discover the best of California is through road trips. Be it a long journey or a short-distance trip, some of the unspoiled paths in California lead you to spectacular places. One of the best drives to experience in this state would be from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park.

Road trips in California are ridiculously popular. Vacationers from all over the globe travel to the West Coast to experience the best routes this state offers. We also covered some popular road trips in our blog if you would like to check them! But if you prefer something short yet fruitful – then LA to Joshua Tree road trip could become your next most awaited trip. Ideally, tourists prefer longer trips where they could halt, stay overnight, experience a bunch load of activities, and then return home. But, yes, on the contrary, many like short trips, where they can relax and enjoy the beautiful setting. For those, LA to Joshua Tree National Park is a perfect fit.

This guide will cover some of the must-visit stops between Los Angeles and Joshua Tree. The drive from LA is beautiful, crisscrossing zig-zaggy roads and ever-changing landscapes. We will give you a detailed road trip planner to help you nail a perfect vacation in California.

How to Plan LA to Joshua Tree Road Trip

How Far is Joshua Tree from Los Angeles

The drive from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park via I-10 E is 128 miles. If you were to drive non-stop, it would take 2hr 10mins to reach. Due to its proximity, this trip could be a day trip on a beautiful sunny weekend. Consider leaving early in the morning to avoid traffic in Los Angeles so that you can reach Joshua Tree well before lunchtime.

Having said that, it’s best to soak in the atmosphere, and wonderful pit stops between Los Angeles and Joshua Tree drive. Try making as many stops as possible whilst enjoying the admirable scenic settings. The landscape drastically changes once you pass the Los Angeles urban city border. The terrain then changes to barren lands, rugged routes, and famous red rock formations that symbolise the typical Californian road trip journey.

Given the distance to Joshua Tree from LA, there’s no excuse not to stop and admire the scenic setting. The road trip blissfully boasts some of the natural gems and landmarks. You can find a list of some of them below.

Best Route to Reach Joshua Tree from Los Angeles

Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park road trip is a direct, straightforward route. It’s also one of the most attraction-packed drives with plenty of things to see and discover. To reach Joshua Tree, take Interstate 10, which passes through Monterey Park, with Los Angeles National Forest to the north. Since our road trip includes a stop at Palm Springs, you’ll have to take a short detour after passing Cabazon. Once your exploration is done, you can return to Interstate 10 to continue your journey to Joshua Tree.

Best Time to Take LA to Joshua Tree Road Trip

Since you can complete this road trip within a couple of hours, you can practically take this trip at any time. However, we suggest you plan your trip during spring or fall. Travelling in the summer season is fine if you drive directly to Joshua Tree. However, with multiple road trips stops on the way – you would heavily sweat with the scorching Californian heat. Furthermore, summer brings in more crowds at each attraction listed in this guide. You’d have to deal with a lot of visitors at each place.

Like summers, winters in California drive visitors to Joshua Tree National Park. Of course, there’s always this fascination of seeing towering peaks and mountains covered in snow. However, winters are still a good-to-go option as an alternative. It’s a different experience altogether.

How to Rent a Car in California

Whether it’s a long journey or a short day trip, planning for the right vehicle for your road trip is of utmost importance. You could either book a campervan for your trip or rent a car for a budgeted journey. For our LA to Joshua Tree road trip, book your rental service from Rentalcars.com. They tend to offer an affordable service for the vehicles you rent and also provide a detailed comparison of the prices you can expect to pay for each duration. I’ve used them as my preferred partner for my rental services too.

Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Map

Here’s your driving route to reach Joshua Tree National Park –

Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip Stops

Los Angeles

A vibrant, energetic metropolis, there’s a plethora of things to do in Los Angeles. From hitting some of LA’s famous beaches to spotting stars at Beverly Hills, Los Angeles is a star-studded city in California that hosts popular activities and experiences immensely.

For travellers visiting LA for the first time, things might get a little overwhelming. With so much to see and do, we want you to keep track of your scheduled road trip. However, if you’re willing to spare a day, you can hit some of LA’s main sights and landmarks. If you have some extra days to spare, check the detailed guide below for a brief list of all the best things to do in Los Angeles.

49 Best Things to do in Los Angeles.

Must-Visit Places in Los Angeles –

Santa Monica Pier: For locals living in LA, Santa Monica is their go-to beach spot. Its proximity to Los Angeles’ main centre makes Santa Monica a perfect base for travellers to relax, unwind and loosen out. Santa Monica State Beach features beach-walking trails, soft silky sands, and great vantage points overlooking the blue ocean horizon. You also want to visit the Pier, the most recognisable landmark in California.

With endless water-sport activities and family-friendly events, Santa Monica is one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles.

Explore the Third Street Promenade: For all shopaholics, it will spoil you down to its core. Known to lure visitors, this street is a fascinating shopping spree housing the biggest brands like H&M and Urban Outfitters and boutiques like Bookseller Inc. and Puzzle Zoo. Apart from all the shopping buzz, the street is well-known for local eatery stalls and sellers. So, remember to get your taste buds revamped with exciting Californian flavours.

Spot the Hollywood Sign: No trip to LA is complete without doing the traditional thing of spotting the iconic ‘Hollywood’ Sign. Any travellers visiting Los Angeles often has this question, ‘Where is the sign?”. Honesty, you could spot the sign almost from anywhere in LA. You need a good angle to capture a photo. Plenty of official guided tours specifically take you on hiking trails closer to the Hollywood sign. Join one of these tours to get a closer look.

Travel Tip: Book a stay at Mama Shelter Los Angeles. The rooftop bar at this hotel has a spectacular view of the Hollywood Sign.

California Botanic Gardens

Interested in learning about the Californian native plants? Head to the California Botanic Gardens, which preserves more than 22,000 living plants. This collection includes rare and endangered species that could only be found in this botanic garden.

The California Botanic Gardens is an underrated road trip stop between Los Angeles and Joshua Tree National Park. However, visitors do attempt to pay a visit to this spectacular garden for the inspirational conservation and horticulture process they follow. This place is a good option for families travelling with their kids to be able to educate and inform them about California’s native flora community.

Riverside

Located in the Southern California region, Riverside is a gorgeous small city boasting incredible touristic opportunities and activities. With an assortment of varied experiences and a pleasing climate, Riverside has become a trendy city to visit nowadays.

Here are some of the top things to do in Riverside, California –

Visit the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa: A visit to Riverside is surely incomplete without visiting its iconic attraction, Mission Inn Hotel and Spa. Even if you aren’t staying at this hotel, it’s worth a trip to admire the awe-inspiring architecture featuring stunning designs and intricate works. For a hotel to look this impressive is simply extraordinary. The hallways and corridors are enough to leave you spellbound as you traverse different spaces within this massive hotel.

Book a stay at the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa at discounted rates.

California Citrus State Historic Park: California is known for its freshly grown oranges. There was a sudden development of citrus trees in California back in 1873 because of their suitable climate and temperatures. Since then, the popularity has grown, and now there’s a dedicated Citrus State Historic Park. Visitors exploring this place can join a free guided tour to discover how oranges are grown, citrus trees are preserved, and how they are maintained in rough climatic conditions. You will also get to taste some of the freshly ripped Californian oranges.

The above-listed places remain must-visit ones if you make it to Riverside. The other optional attractions include exploring Riverside Metropolitan Museum, Mount Rubidoux, Riverside Art Museum, and California Museum of Photography.

Palm Springs

Located in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County, Palm Springs is a beautiful city that cannot be missed by any traveller visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Although the city of Palm Springs isn’t part of the main route that leads to Joshua Tree, it still makes an excellent pit stop to enjoy the resort and other remarkable locations spread across.
Palm Springs is often visited by some of America’s biggest celebrities, film producers, musicians and politicians. It’s not hard to guess that this beautiful city holds something truly special.

Palm Springs is a great culmination of a modern-urban life amidst the deserted zone filled with trendy bars & cafes, restaurants and world-famous resorts. If you were to relax and live a life like a celebrity, then indulge in a stay at La Serena Villas. These properties woo you with amazing swimming pools and amenities. Nothing sounds more relaxing than cooling yourself inside a pool with striking mountain views.

Top things to do in Palm Springs –

Visit Uptown Palm Springs: There’s nothing more upbeat than driving past Palm Canyon Drive to explore a dozen galleries, restaurants, movie theatres, cafes, and shopping outlets. Palm Canyon Drive is the heart of this city that beautifully drives visitors to interact with local sellers and artisans. Every weekend, the streets of Uptown Palm Springs flow with tourists browsing a variety of souvenirs and products. It’s a great stop to admire handmade crafts, pottery, designer clothes, and much more.

Explore The Gardens on El Paseo: A 23-minute drive from Downtown Palm Springs takes you to the Gardens on El Paseo, a beautiful outdoor shopping centre for locals and tourists alike. Today, its become one of the trendy hotspots to explore and is certainly becoming one of the most-visited places in this region. You can light up your visit by having a wonderful dinner at Mastro’s Steakhouse and tons of entertainment options.

Tour Palm Springs Art Museum: Well, if you admire art, then Palm Springs Art Museum should definitely be on your list. Home to permanent art collections of western and contemporary, the museum has been internally acclaimed as one of the great art museums in California. You’ll often find art workshops and exhibits happening during their regular opening hours.

Joshua Tree National Park

From tranquil deserted areas to epic hiking trails and jaw-dropping sunsets, Joshua Tree National Park is one of California’s most natural preserved gems. The place is truly unlike any other national park and is certainly the best day-trip option for locals living in LA.

People living near Los Angeles find it absolutely blessed to have a national park closer to the city. Within a couple hours of drive, you’re right in the centre of gigantic red rock formations and hidden oases. More importantly, Joshua Tree National Park is also a crowded one. Mostly on weekends, travellers rush to this place to either explore, camp or dine. So expect a certain crowd during the daytime during your exploration.

Joshua Tree National Park is a place for all adventure junkies and outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s opportunities are at their best – considering varied difficulty hikes, red-rock treks, horseback riding, stargazing, and offroading. Even if you aren’t an adrenaline person, there’s nothing to worry about! You could explore Joshua Tree town, go saloon dining, browse quirky shops, and camp overnight. The only best way to appreciate the beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is to spend some time and admire the scenic setting. Consider spending a minimum of 2 days in this town.

Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park –

Take the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail: If you had to imagine what Joshua Tree NP looks like, then visualize an open-spaced desert with a flurry of palm trees. You get that if you take the famous Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail. Known for its lush desert oasis, the hike is over three miles and is pretty rugged with steep slopes. This could get a little challenging for visitors with little or no fitness, so ensure that you’re well-equipped with enough energy drinks. Nonetheless, however challenging this trail might sound, the panoramic views over the valley are unmatched. It’s a visual treat to your eyes.

Marvel at the Arch Rock: Another popular landmark you can’t miss in Joshua Tree National Park is the giant boulder rock that’s been naturally formed into a curvaceous shape. It looks massive in size and is over 30 feet in width. To reach the Arch, you’ll have to take a short trail which leads directly to the boulder.

Experience Stargazing: Stargazing is one of the definitive experiences of visiting Joshua Tree National Park. The desert oasis offers a perfectly clear sky, making it incredibly special to spot constellations and planets. The best way to experience stargazing is to go camping at Joshua Tree. Spend an overnight under the star-studded sky and witness the dancing skies in action.

Where to Stay

Los Angeles and Joshua Tree features an excellent range of accommodation. Be it luxury stays, budgeted apartments, B&B rooms, shared dorms – you’ll get a plethora of options to choose from when planning for a LA to Joshua Tree trip.

I recommend using Booking.com as your preferred hotel partner to book hotels and stays for each destination. I personally use them for my travels and often find the best rates compared to other booking engines. At the end of this post, you’ll find a search widget for Booking.com. Make use of that search box to see what rates you’re being offered for your travel dates. This way you can make a comparison of prices before booking.

Guided Tours from LA to Joshua Tree

Further Readings & Resources

Amarillo to Santa Fe – 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Yosemite – 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary
Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

Other popular reads –

Melbourne to Coober Pedy: 9 Sensational Melbourne to Coober Pedy Road Trip Stops
Melbourne to Gold Coast: 7 Ultimate Melbourne to Gold Coast Road Trip Spots
Yarra Valley: Yarra Valley 3 Day Itinerary : Ultimate Guide (+Map & Tips)
Whitsundays: Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips)

The post 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip appeared first on Travel Realms.

The natural wonder of Yosemite National Park is relatively easy to arrive at from Los Angeles. It quickly becomes a weekend destination for day-trippers and locals to spend a couple of nights camping at Yosemite. The park features more than 1,200 miles of rugged landscapes, towering peaks, raw wilderness, and serene vantage points. Furthermore, the hiking trails and camping sites add the right amount of adventure you need for a perfect vacation.

Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip isn’t a lesser-known route anymore. If you’re travelling to California for the first time, you would expect the journey to be filled with romantic settings, palm trees, glistening beaches, and towering pines. However, it’s the opposite of what you actually imagine. The locals of California who have driven the LA to Yosemite route know the path is filled with barren landscapes and local farms. However, if you take the alternative way we suggest – you might experience the best of the Los Angeles to Yosemite drive.

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is California’s best scenic coastal route. Dotted with picturesque viewpoints, quaint villages, charming towns, and unique stops, the PCH is ideally the best option for any Los Angeles to Yosemite drive. Although it’s a longer route to drive, the journey is definitely going to be a delightful experience. This article details the interesting stops worth exploring along the LA to Yosemite National Park road trip. Moreover, you’ll find in-depth resources to plan your travels, such as accommodation ideas, maps, itineraries, and much more.

How to Plan Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

When you look at your maps, you ideally get instructed to take the CA-99 route to reach Yosemite National Park. This is the most direct route to the park if you drive non-stop. But, as mentioned before, it’s less scenic, and you’d wind past mainly through livestock farms. Please look at the below sections, where we have detailed some practical info to help you plan a smoother road trip.

Driving Times for Los Angeles to Yosemite

The drive from Los Angeles to Yosemite via CA-99N is 279 miles. If you were to drive non-stop, it would take 4hr 49mins to reach. Considering that you accept our suggested Pacific Coast Highway route (PCH) route, it will take approximately 13hr 15mins (693 miles) of driving time to reach Yosemite National Park. This total time includes the stops mentioned below in our road trip guide.

As you can see, CA-99N takes the shortest to reach Yosemite. So, if you were to skip en route places and attractions, it would take less than a day to arrive and spend some time at the park. However, if you prefer scenic vistas and gorgeous mountain terrain, it’s worth taking time to drive a longer route for this road trip.

How to Rent a Car in California

Choosing the right vehicle for your road trip is as important as planning your entire journey. You could either book a campervan for your trip or rent a car for a budgeted journey. For our Californian road trip, book your rental service from Rentalcars.com. They tend to offer an affordable service for the vehicles you rent and also provide a detailed comparison of the prices you can expect to pay for each duration. I’ve used them as my preferred partner for my rental services too.

Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Map

Here’s your driving route to reach Yosemite National Park from Los Angeles (including stops):

Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops

Pismo Beach

Drive time from Los Angeles to Pismo Beach: 2hr 56mins (177 miles)

Gorgeously blessed with dunes, sea caves, piers, and incredible nightlife – Pismo Beach is one of California’s most under-rated coastal towns. This tiny beach region is a lesser-known attraction for weekend getaways. So, ultimately you can find fewer crowds occupying the interests.

Pismo Beach, as the name suggests, offers long sandy beaches against the backdrop of spectacular sunsets. You could go on and try out all the experiences you can at this beach town, but nothing can beat the pleasure of taking a relaxing stroll on its white sandy beach. And as you’re soaking in the lovely atmosphere, you’ll soon get the vibes of being in a Middle-Eastern region. Thanks to the outdoor recreation and local street vendors that line up the shoreline of Pismo Beach.

We included this coastal town in our LA to Yosemite road trip only because it’s unique. There are many activities, experiences to try out, culinary scenes to engage in, and nightlife to get wild. However, we list down the top three things to do on your first-ever visit to Pismo Beach below –

Visit Downtown Pismo Beach: The charming, energetic side of Downtown Pismo Beach is where all the fun starts. Take an hour and a half to explore the streets of Downtown and browse through some pretty cafes, boutique shops, and luxury stores that harbour the road. The restaurants located in this part of Pismo Beach have different culinary tales to praise about. Stop by for lunch at Penny’s All American Cafe or Ada’s Fish House to taste what this tiny coastal town offers.

Explore Pismo Beach Pier: You can call the pier the highlight of Pismo Beah. It’s a great vantage point to soak in panoramic views of the Pacific Coast side while engaging in soft adventures like swimming and surfing. It’s not as popular as Santa Monica Pier but still a great tourist attraction for day-trippers to relax.

Be adventurous at Pismo Reserve: How about hiking across the scenic coastal trails of Pismo? Sounds cool, right? If you’re a little adventurous, make sure to take advantage of Pismo Reserve’s fun. The eight varied hiking trails at this park combine an unforgettable experience of viewing wildlife and ocean views. Take the Spring to Spring Trail or the Historical Price Park to experience the best of Pismo Reserve.

Explore | Find out budgeted hotels in Pismo Beach, CA.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Drive time from Pismo Beach to Julia Pfeiffer Burns: 2hr 10mins (106 miles)

The drive from Pismo Beach to your next road trip stop is filled with incredible scenery and jaw-dropping terrain. And as you scan through the vistas presented by the Pacific Coastal Highway, you’ll soon find yourself amidst the wild platform of the famous Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

The park features secluded hidden coves, unspoiled hiking tracks, and dense, lush green forests for you to explore and discover. In total, seven trails lead you to mini waterfalls, redwood-clad forests, and curved coves. The shortest one, Waterfall Overlook Trail, is the most visited path that takes you to the park’s important attraction: McWay Falls. This site has been praised by many for its impressive geological features. The other popular trails worth checking out are Canyon Trail, Lookout Trail, and Partington Cove Trail.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is also one of California’s best-camping sites. Although it has only two campgrounds, it still provides good accessibility options and amenities for those wishing to stay the night. Moreover, it’s a surreal experience to witness the star-studded sky in action.

Carmel

Drive time from Julia Pfeiffer to Carmel: 55mins (36.4 miles)

Carmel, or ‘Carmel-by-the-Sea‘, is one of California’s fantastic central coast destinations. As quaint and charming as the town looks, the buzzing atmosphere makes a different impression on travellers altogether. With family-friendly activities, Carmel has become a trendy coastal town to attract all age groups. Be it a typical weekend escape or a romantic holiday getaway – this beautiful, lovely town doesn’t fail to magnify its note-worthy attractions.

The coastal town of Carmel is occupied by busy cobblestone streets that line up unique boutique shops, world-class restaurants, and great wine-tasting rooms. Alongside the coast, the shimmering beaches and crescent-shaped white sand shines through all its glory. And in the heart of this town, storybook cottages and historical monuments feature their presence. No matter which part of the town you visit, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes you dwell in its dreamy natural vistas.

While this depends on whether you want to spend a night in Carmel or not, we recommend visiting the below-listed places –

Visit Carmel Beach: For all beach lovers, you wouldn’t find anything more blissful than Carmel Beach itself. This place has always been on the bucket list of many travellers and is often crowded by tourists during the peak season. Despite being one of the busiest beaches in California, Carmel Beach remains unspoiled and well-protected. On a bright sunny day, visitors will be sunbathing, relaxing under the soft carpeted sand, playing in the surf, and rejuvenating with a nice drink.

Travel Tip: To get the best views of Carmel Beach, head down the Scenic Road from the blue Pacific. The road is absolutely studded with blue coastal vistas, alluring beaches, and panoramic vantage points.

Carmel River State Beach: If you prefer a quieter place to explore, visit Carmel River State Beach. The place is relatively calmer than Carmel Beach and could be a great alternative for you. Check out some of the amazing accommodations in & around Carmel.

Go Wine Tasting: There’s no way you could miss wine tasting in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Home to more than 20 wine-tasting cellars, Carmel is a great coastal town to explore the vineyards and sip their signature refined wines. Read this guide to find out about various wine estates spread across Carmel.

Monterey

The drive from Carmel to Monterey is only 10 minutes. It’s an excellent stop for those looking to unwind, relax and rejuvenate from a tiresome journey. However, we have Monterey on our road trip because of the diverse experiences it presents. There are plenty of things to do in this small town, and you could easily spend two days exploring the surrounding region.

Monterey has got an impressive history and is often regarding the best to host the world’s richest marine environments. The town is a perfect place to go whale-watching year-round, while the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great enjoyment for families and kids.

Some must-see places in Monterey include exploring Cannery Row, Monterey State Historic Park, Cathedral of San Carlos Borromeo, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and Point Sur Lightstation.

Book Now | Reserve your dream hotel for our California Road Trip.

San Jose

Drive time from Monterey to San Jose: 1hr 13mins (72.3 miles)

From centuries of history to unravel, monuments and museums to explore, and hiking and biking trails to discover, San Jose perfectly houses some of the best Californian gems. It’s the largest city in Northern California and sits comfortably outside the Bay Area for perfect weekend escapades. Whether you’re here for a couple of hours, a day trip, or a week-long vacation, there’s a shedload of things to discover in the heart of Santa Clara Valley.

San Jose often gets overlooked by its neighbours – San Francisco, Monterey, and Carmel, but it’s still one of the most visited regions of California. Thanks to its incredible experiences, travellers savour visiting this place. Below are some of the recommended things to do in San Jose –

Winchester Mystery House: This classic attraction highlights any guided tour in San Jose. Winchester Mystery Houe is often known for its striking beauty, quirky rooms, and paranormal activity beliefs. The entire house is filled with misleading doors and false stairs, and it’s a pretty unique thing to discover, especially in a great place like this. The best way to tour Winchester Mystery House is through guided tours, as they give a complete presentation of its spooky corridors and spaces.

San Pedro Square Market: Perfect for families to relax, San Pedro Square Market hosts fantastic musical shows, concerts, and energetic vendors from different parts of the world. This local market is also home to some of the best gastronomy scenes of California, serving varietal cuisines from continental and Indian to classic American delicacies. Events such as stand-up comedies, book signings, and live screenings of a game – all happen at this bustling San Pedro Square Market.

Santana Row: Need a little retail therapy? Head to Santana Row to refresh yourselves with a cluster of amazing eatery shops, boutiques, branded shopping outlets, and local independent producers. This is one of the best regions to purchase anything you ever need! So, always keep Santana Row on your bucket list of places to visit in San Jose.

San Francisco

Drive time from San Jose to San Francisco: 55mins (48 miles)

We needed to leave San Francisco out of our Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip. This city doesn’t fail to amaze travellers with its impressive landmarks. Be it anything – cross-cultural roots, friendly neighbourhoods, shimmering beaches, lively parks, eclectic music scenes, or gastronomical delights – San Francisco is a playground for those looking for a superior experience.

When I visited San Francisco, I enjoyed exploring the outdoors. This city tends to surprise you with its numerous charm works that only enlighten your mood in every way. The locals are pretty friendly in San Francisco. They help you discover some of the city’s unknown, secluded gems.

Honestly, San Francisco could overwhelm you with loads of things to see and do, and for first-timers, it’s a nightmare figuring out which places to cover. But, if you take my suggestion, keep your city exploration simple and limited to major highlights. Below I’ve recommended some of the top sites which are ‘must-ones’ to visit in San Francisco –

Take a city tour of SF: The best way to let San Francisco introduce you is to hop on a guided city tour. There’s no better exploration option than to cover multiple sites in one go. This saves time and money rather than spending dollars on each attraction. Yes, the flexibility is limited. But isn’t that a trade-off to a cheaper option you’re getting?

This guided city tour traverses some of SA’s top landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alamo Square, Union Square South, Ferry Building, Washington Square, Lombard Street Corner, Haight Ashbury, and Pier 39. You will be visiting all these places in a comfort of a double-decker bus!

Tour the Waterfront and Alcatraz Prison: San Francisco’s landmarks aren’t only limited to the city attractions but also local markets, waterfront areas, and short day-trip excursions. This guided tour introduces you to places that offer sweeping coastline views. You’ll be boarding a ferry to cruise Alcatraz Island. Learn about the prison’s intriguing history and tour the cell houses that store the darker side of Alcatraz. Later in the evening, visit the markets to drool over the fresh produces that serves crab and clam chowder in bread bowls.

Golden Gate Bay Cruise: The ending to your San Francisco exploration should feel right, so I suggest hopping on a sunset cruise to the Golden Gate. As you sail along the city’s breathtaking waterfront, watch the Golden Gate Bridge soaring high in all its glory. It’s a nostalgic moment for tourists to witness this magnificent bridge once in their lifetime.

Sacramento

Drive time from San Francisco to Sacramento: 1hr 29mins (95.4 miles)

Unlike the other big Californian cities, Sacramento moves slowly with its laid-back lifestyle that presents amazing food and wine culture, local bars & pubs, vintage shops, breweries, and under-rated music and events. It isn’t a traveller’s preferred place to stay over a couple of nights, but rather an exciting place to stop by and wander what this town has in store.

What makes Sacramento a must-visit stop on our Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip is epic music festivals. You may or may not have heard of the music scenes reverberating in this town, but the grand scales concerts, rock events, and weekly live performances epitomize the sheer aura of Sacramento. If you’re in town, check out shows like Aftershock, Farm-to-Fork, and GoldenSky. You’ll have to check the dates for these events, but if you’re hitting this town at the right time, you’re in for a real treat!

Folks who are not really fans of musical shows and grand events can hit other exciting places in Sacramento, such as Capitol Park, Old Sacramento State Historic Park, Crocker Art Museum, Delta King, American River Parkway, and California State Railroad Museum. In addition to these places, you could go and experience some of the best outdoorsy things in Sacramento – visiting local wineries of Acheson Wine Company, savouring delicious ice cream from Vic’s, and wandering through Midtown Farmers Market for souvenirs.

Yosemite National Park

Drive time from Sacramento to Yosemite National Park: 2hr 43mins (141 miles)

Well, it’s time to bid goodbye to the California urban sets as we make our final road trip stop – Yosemite National Park. The drive from Sacramento is more than two hours, but it is worth it with scenic inland highlights. As you wind past towering mountains, you’ll soon spot the mighty peaks of Yosemite coming into the spotlight. It will be a surreal experience for those visiting this magnificent place for the first time.

Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the third-oldest national park. It’s one of California’s real natural landmarks that boasts a tremendous amount of tourist opportunities for travellers to take part in. From trekking to hiking, bush-walking to night camping – there’s always something to discover in this amazing Yosemite NP.

We highly recommend spending a minimum of two days at Yosemite National Park. Ideally, this is enough to experience what the park has to offer and the trails and walking paths you discover on the way. Upon your arrival, you could familiarise yourselves with nearby attractions in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Places like Tunnel View Outlook, Bridalveil Fall, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and Yosemite Falls are unmissable spots. Even the world’s most incredible monolith, El Capitan, is based in Yosemite, NP.

For detailed info on things to do at Yosemite National Park, we recommend checking our guide on the 10-Day California Itinerary. This trip details a couple of amazing things to do at the park. Furthermore, you can also book optional tours below to elevate your Yosemite NP experience.

Where to Stay in California

California is home to a serious range of accommodations catering to all travellers. From luxurious beach villas and sea-view apartments to budgeted hostels and family guestrooms, California hosts all varietals to make your stay comfortable.

However, planning for a road trip requires research and time. The hotels you select need to be perfectly aligned with your schedule. Ideally, the suggestion that we give is not to book hotels that are far away from a city. Doing so will increase your travel time and can cost you more money. Ensure that you get yourself closer to a city/town to spend more time exploring the surrounding.

I recommend using Booking.com as your preferred partner to book your stay in California. It is more beneficial because the rates are always cheaper when compared to other booking engines. You can also use the platform to compare rates offered by different hotel operators. This way, you can ensure you’re always booking the right one.

Guided Tours for Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip

In addition to the places listed above, you would find the below-guided excursions exciting for your California road trip. The below tours complement our Los Angeles to Yosemite trip and can be added as per your preference.

Further Readings & Resources

Amarillo to Santa Fe – 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Alaska – 7 Day Alaska Itinerary: How To Spend A Week in Alaska
California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary
Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

Other popular reads –

Melbourne to Coober Pedy: 9 Sensational Melbourne to Coober Pedy Road Trip Stops
Melbourne to Gold Coast: 7 Ultimate Melbourne to Gold Coast Road Trip Spots
Yarra Valley: Yarra Valley 3 Day Itinerary : Ultimate Guide (+Map & Tips)
Whitsundays: Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips)

The post 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops appeared first on Travel Realms.

You may think a 3 day itinerary to Alaska is impossible, or instead, we’re nuts even to suggest a schedule so short. But, let us prove you wrong – as we’re about to present a sample 3 days in Alaska tour for your next vacation.

Alaska is a natural gem. It’s a state filled with glorious attractions, sightseeing tours, and plenty of excursions. Its rugged mountains, snowy landscapes, Glacier blue waters, and dense rainforests make it worthwhile to plan your next trip to the U.S.

But is 3 days in Alaska worth it?

Not many would like to go to a place where they could only spend a short duration enjoying their vacation. Most of us (including me) love traveling – where we could spend a week or so. We have longer Alaska itineraries covering the best sightseeing trips, cruises, and tours. Moreover, you could also plan an Alaskan road trip with the help of this schedule.

When suggesting a 3-day Alaska trip, we wouldn’t recommend going for it if you were to explore only Alaska. This is mainly for tourists who have already booked their U.S. or Canada trips. Travelers who love venturing to other parts of the North American segments often fulfill their bucket-list adventures by extending their vacation. Tourists who often end their trip to Seattle, Vancouver, or British Columbia usually book/extend their itinerary to Alaska for a couple of days.

In such scenarios, a 3 day itinerary in Alaska makes sense!

Likewise, there are multi-options for you to choose how to spend your 3 days in Alaska. You could either explore Girdwood & Spencer Glacier or take a more profound exploration tour to cities like Seward, Anchorage, Kenai, and Fairbanks.

No matter how you spend your days in Alaska, the opportunities presented by its vibrant tourism are endless.

Overview of the 3 Day Itinerary Alaska

During these 3 days in Alaska, the trip is curated explicitly for travelers looking to extend their North American tour. While the duration doesn’t seem feasible to explore all of Alaska in 3 days, it still gives you ample opportunities to discover the state’s highlights and landmarks.

In this Alaska itinerary, you’ll be spending 3 days in Anchorage – including a day trip to Seward – to experience the magical Kenai Fjords National Park. Moreover, expect to tour Anchorage’s unique locations, museums, restaurants, and waterfront areas. Additionally, you can add pre-or post-cruise tours in Anchorage and club it with other day trips.

Day 1 of Alaska Itinerary: Anchorage City Exploration
Day 2 of Alaska Itinerary: Day Trip to Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park
Day 3 of Alaska Itinerary: Experiential Tours in Anchorage

Essential Planning Tips for 3 Day Itinerary Alaska

Best Time to Visit Alaska

The best time to visit Alaska is between May and September (summer). While this isn’t the peak period, you’ll still find many tourists hoping to tour the state. Try to avoid June and July, as they tend to pull in many crowds in Alaska. Furthermore, the hotel rates, airfares, attraction fees, and travel expenses all hike up to cater to the peak season of Alaska.

While we recommend traveling between May and September, we would also recommend experiencing the different seasons of Alaska (winter, spring, fall, and summer). Each season offers a distinct uniqueness & charm in exploring Alaska, with varying temperatures and daylight hours.

Health & Safety Guidelines

It’s essential to follow COVID-19 guidelines (if any) while traveling within Alaska. At the current time of writing, the state is open for tourists to explore. However, this is uncertain, and the updates can change depending on the time you travel. Its best recommended staying updated with their policies here.

Lonely Planet for Alaska

Lonely Planet is one of the most influential travel books of all time. Being a leading pioneer in the industry, the company has curated some great destination guide books, travel tips, maps, and useful resources. I personally use them during my own travels and its the best thing I carry out of all essentials.

How Much Does a 3 Day Alaska Itinerary Cost

On average, a 3 day Alaska Itinerary costs around $1800-$2100. This is an indicative price considering mid-range hotels, day-to-day travel expenses, and other miscellaneous. The tour cost will also depend on the season you travel to (peak vs. shoulder). Plus, any other cruise tours, hiking excursions, and off-beaten ventures will add to your cost.

Moreover, the entire trip cost will come down to selecting your activity choices and accommodation. Through our partnership programs with various travel companies, we make it easy for you to book preferred activities & entry-ticket fees at much cheaper costs.

Detailed 3 Day Alaska Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Anchorage | Explore the City

Discover the top highlights of Anchorage on your day one exploration, from sparkling glaciers and incredible wildlife to lush-green parks and trails.

The vibrant city of Anchorage proudly boasts a mix of outdoor and urban adventures. It’s one of Alaska’s prime tourist destinations, attractions millions of visitors every year to come & explore its inner discoveries. Anchorage serves as a perfect touring base for undertaking day trips and excursions. Many people who come to Alaska start their itineraries from Anchorage – as it gives them great accessibility to other Alaskan landmarks.

Below are some of the top recommended activities to do in Anchorage – 

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center

One of the best ways to get introduced to Alaska’s priceless history is to visit the famous Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage. Here you can learn all about Alaska’s varied communities and the culture represented by each tribe. The center is spread across an area of 26-acre – known to promote all of Alaska’s tribal art, customs, and language,

Moreover, with the help of occasional events and traditional exhibits, you’ll learn more about the survival of indigenous tribes in the modern age of hustles. Many of these events are interactive to entice families to travel with kids, and the purpose is to make you understand how Alaska formed its shape in today’s world.

There are additional in-house tours & audio guides available at an extra charge.

Anchorage Trolley Tour

There’s nothing quite like touring Anchorage as a local. Experience the city’s wonders on a Hop-On Hop-Off City Trolley Tour and delve into Alaska’s natural beauty.

The trolley tour is similar to popular hop-on hop-off bus tours across major cities. It helps you cover different stop-points instantly while giving the maximum fun to enjoy the city’s outdoor. This specific trolley which journeys through downtown Anchorage, covers 5+ attractions. These include Point Wornzoff, Ship Creek, Earthquake Park, and Lake Hood small airplane airport. You’ll stop by and get a few minutes to wander off at each of these places.

Anchorage Botanical Garden Tour

The botanical garden in Anchorage is its hidden gem. Not many ventures out to this place, but it remains an unspoiled attraction to experience lush-green parks, paved loop trails, and its local-nourished flowers and trees.

Take a guided walking tour of the botanical gardens in Anchorage to learn & understand Alaska’s wildlife and nature. With the help of an expert, you’ll find it easy to learn about the state’s local flowers, animals, and birds. As you embark on the paved trail, expect surprises to spot bears and moose – who are known to wander the surrounds of the garden.

Other attractions inside the botanical garden include visiting perennial gardens, plaza area, greenhouse space, and research plots.

Indulge in Alaskan Cuisine

Experiencing the culinary essence of any state/country is enriching, and it gives you the pleasures of being in a place and indulging in the cuisines they offer. And as we speak about the gastronomies of a destination, Alaska leaves no stone unturned. It’s one of the most happening places in the United States to come and try out delicious cuisines.

Likewise, exploring local food in Anchorage is an unbelievable experience. While you’re here, do not forget to try out its famous seafood delicacy – salmon. Other local foods include Reindeer Sausage, Berry Cobbler, King Crab Legs, and Fish & Chips.

You could find the food mentioned above in restaurants, pubs, local stalls, and even a food truck.

Recommended: Got a week? Experience a blend of natural wonders and rustic wildlife in this 7 Day Alaska Itinerary.

Day 2: Day Trip to Seward | Kenai Fjords Tour

Experience the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park.

The journey from Anchorage to Seward via the Seward Highway is one of the country’s most scenic highways. The breathtaking scenes of Chugach National Forest and the views of Turnagain Arm Inlet make it a memorable driving experience on the Alaskan roads.

Seward is a paradisal place featuring towering mountains, glaciers, crystal clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Its prime attraction – the Kenai Fjords National Park – is a sight hard to miss.

The Kenai Fjords remain an unbeatable excursion out of all the things you do in Seward. The dramatic glaciers and their spanning views across the Pacific make it worthwhile to marvel at its surroundings. And not only it’s a beautiful sight to explore, but also the most accessible Alaskan day trip from Anchorage.

Cruise the Kenai Fjords National Park

Start your Kenai journey by boarding the largest catamaran in the region, and spend full-day flabbergasting at the dense forests, mountains, and glaciers. Spot whales, puffins, and sea otters near Resurrection Bay and learn regional history with the help of a National park ranger.

The cruise will also stop at one tidewater glacier to make you watch the glacier calving events. It doesn’t happen frequently, but if lucky – you’ll be able to see the breakdown of the ice chunks. Furthermore, enjoy stops at the Gulf of Alaska past Bear Glacier to capture amazing photos of the park’s dense nature.

Add an extra day to explore the below activities in Seward

Hike the Exit Glacier – Interested in hiking trails? Explore the beautiful path of Exit Glacier, leading straight into the heart of the Kenai Fjords.
Visit the SeaLife Centre – Learn about Alaska’s marine world at the SeaLife Centre located in Seward city. This 115,000 sqft facility features aquatic species in their most natural habitat.
Find Murals in Seward – Discover murals handcrafted by local artists based on prominent themes. Most of these murals have been spread across the city.

Day 3: Anchorage | Experiential Activities

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

A 45-minute drive from Anchorage will take you to the famous Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre. The space has been specifically designed to protect the local species of Alaska and preserve their longevity. It’s an excellent attraction for families to come and discover over 200-acres of animal enclosures and incredible nature.

With the help of this admission ticket, you’ll gain access to view animals in their natural habitats and an option to self-drive the scenic 1.5-mile loop. You can either drive, ski, or bike-ride the circuit to encounter animals spread across this vast conservation center. During winter, the experience of touring the 1.5-mile loop is even more fun, as it presents limitless winter-driven sports & activities.

The other highlight of touring the AWCC is its prime location. Surrounded by the shades of the breathtaking Chugach Mountain Range, the site itself is an admirable spot to spend some time and relax.

Coastal Trail of Anchorage

Need some thrill in Anchorage? Hop onto this adventurous bike trail course to explore the fantastic locations of Kincaid Park, Earthquake Park, and Westchester Lagoon.

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a popular coastal trail in Anchorage. You can start your tour at the Visitor Centre and then bike through the Kincaid Park to view the amazing Alaskan landscape flow in motion. Stop by Earthquake Park, and marvel at the mountain ranges surrounding the entire coast. You can easily spot the Alaskan and the Denali Range from the park.

Also, do watch out for any wildlife along your journey. They are most likely to be spotted on the Tony Knowles Trail.

Note: This particular bike ride is open for all age groups. It doesn’t require any fitness level, as you’d be casually exploring places from time to time. For more info, you can check the details here.

Accommodation for 3 Days in Alaska

Alaska is home to many hotels, lodges, and cabin/house rentals. With the variety of options to choose from, selecting the right hotel may become overwhelming for visitors to book their stay.

Also, pre-planning hotels in Alaska is one of the most vital stages of your trip. It’s crucial because your tour price will eventually increase if you don’t plan it well, costing you more than an average night’s stay.

We’ve researched some unique hotel stays for your 3 days in Alaska to reduce your work. We’ve further drilled these suggestions into the budget, mid-range, and luxury to give you the best accommodation guide. Use the links below to redirect them to these specific categories –

Budget/Cheap Hotels in Alaska – There’s no shortage of rental home options, B&B, and hostels in Alaska. Explore this category in detail and filter out your preference based on style.

Mid-range Hotels in Alaska – Got some extra bucks to spend? These mid-range hotel options in Alaska will guide you the right way.

Luxury Hotels in Alaska – Luxury is quite synonymous with what Alaska offers. The state proudly boasts forest lodges, eco-resorts, and cabins featuring excellent amenities & gorgeous room views. Check this category to find high-end stays in Alaska.

Best Alaska Day Trips & Excursions

Want to explore more of Alaska? Read our 10-day Alaska itinerary to book a perfect Alaskan road trip for your next vacation. Alternatively, this 7-day Alaska itinerary is a shorter version traversing across cities like Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, and Ketchikan.

You can also explore these popular day trips & excursions of Alaska  –

Talkeetna: Flight Experience of Denali – Soar high above the mountains of the Tokositna glacier and discover famous peaks – Moose’s Tooth and Broken Tooth. Click here.

Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier – Combine two Alaskan experiences and venture out to explore the serene beauty of the rustic Alaskan landscape. View this page to find more details.

Knik Glacier Helicopter Tour – Nothing can beat the enthralling experience of taking the Alaskan Helicopter Ride. Fly high up the Knik River Valley to spot glaciers and famous peaks. View this page to find more details.

Talkeetna: Glacier Landing Tour – Level up your adventure game by landing on the Alaskan Range. Uncover Denali’s majestic beauty, and discover massive mountains. Explore this page.

Further Readings & Resources

Alaska – 7 Day Alaska Itinerary: How To Spend A Week in Alaska
California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary
Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

Other popular reads –

London Paris Amsterdam – London Paris Amsterdam Itinerary: Epic 10 Days in Europe
London Paris Barcelona – London Paris Barcelona Itinerary: Ultimate 10 Days in Europe
Experiential Europe – 10 Day Europe Trip: Germany, Belgium & France to Ireland

The post 3 Day Itinerary Alaska | Journey to Seward & Kenai Fjords appeared first on Travel Realms.

If you’re a local staying in New England, you might have already experienced the journey from New York to Boston. Our itinerary is curated for those who haven’t yet explored the gems located between these two iconic cities.

You can take a trip to Boston from New York within four hours in standard terms. But, honestly, what’s the fun in that?

There are numerous attractions, landmarks, and iconic experiences waiting to be witnessed by travelers like you. And with the help of our New York to Boston road trip, we make it possible to discover these unique locations gloriously.

So, if you’re in the United States and looking to venture off on a journey covering the East Coast, we present this New York and Boston road trip. This itinerary is meant to showcase New England’s adoring beauty in the best way possible.

Let’s get started!

Overview of New York to Boston Road Trip

The itinerary designed for this New York and Boston road trip is for 7 days. The total journey is around 330-miles, taking approximately 6hr 18minutes (an indicative number based on the time of writing). The route taken for this specific road trip is via I-95N, but you can take alternative ways depending on the traffic and travel time.

We wanted to create a simple yet adventurous journey covering central locations falling between New York and Boston. The idea was to connect these locations and make an epic short trip for travelers who only have a week’s vacation.

Any age group can take this New York and Boston road trip, as we have not included strenuous or challenging activities. Moreover, we have included only those particular stops or intervals which deem necessary to visit during your trip. This will surely elevate your experience of driving from NYC to Boston.

This New York to Boston road trip can be done in reverse order. Suppose you had to do – Boston to New York road trip – the same route given in our below map will apply. Alternatively, you can approach Interstate 90 West from Boston to take the fastest way to NYC.

New York to Boston Road Trip Schedule

Day 1: New York City
Day 2: New York City – New Haven
Day 3: New Haven – Essex, CT
Day 4: Essex – Newport, RI
Day 5: Newport – Cape Cod
Day 6: Cape Cod – Boston
Day 7: Boston (Departure)

Map of New York and Boston Itinerary

Check this New York to Boston drive map, detailing the exact route and locations. To get an interactive version of the below map, click here.

Detailed New York to Boston Road Trip

Day 1: New York City

Let’s get started with our New York to Boston road trip by exploring the significant sights of NYC.

New York City is a playground for tourists to indulge in a whirlwind of activities. Famous for its incredible nightlife, cafes & restaurants, pub scenes, gastronomy, museums & art, and world-class theatre productions, New York boasts all of its attractions & activities to entice tourists worldwide.

What makes New York so unique is its varied experiences. You could spend an entire week in NYC visiting many of its landmarks & sights. Forget about a week; you could spend a whole day in Central Park itself, relaxing & unwinding around its gardens, lakes, and carousel.

With so much to see and do around, it’s overwhelming for a first-time traveller to explore New York City. Since we are on our road trip to Boston, we won’t be spending much time in the city. We recommend choosing one neighbourhood out of Soho, Midtown East, Theatre District, and Lower Manhattan to explore.

Below we have recommended a few places within the Lower Manhattan region. Check this page to see what NYC’s other neighbourhoods have in store.

Visit the Times Square

Times Square is not only the famous landmark of New York but also the liveliest area of all neighbourhoods. When you visit Times Square, it’ll always be packed with tourists, especially during the holiday season.

What makes Times Square so unique is its atmosphere. The streets are illuminated with giant billboards, Broadway theatres, fantastic coffee shops, and a large chain of restaurants. Moreover, a walk around the street across Times Square will introduce you to a paradisical world of fashion stores & boutiques.

The High Line

The High Line is known to provide some of NYC’s best surrounding views. It’s an elevated park that starts from Hudson Yards and stretches up to the northern edge of Chelsea.

You can stroll the entire pathway starting from one end to the other, exploring wildflowers, greenery, and outdoor art installations in addition to the views.

Note: The High Line can get overcrowded on a bright sunny day, and it isn’t a pleasant experience, especially if you’re planning to walk along the park. To avoid them, try arriving early in the morning.

Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty

Undoubtedly, the Statue of Liberty is America’s most famous landmark. The place is listed on every NYC tourist itinerary, and thus we thought of including it in our New York to Boston road trip.

To tour the Statue of Liberty, we recommend taking the Staten Island ferry to Liberty Island. The Ferry leaves from the Whitehall Terminal and reaches the other point, i.e., St. George Terminal. It approx takes 25-minutes for each way ride.

Optional Tours in New York City

If time permits, we recommend choosing a few attractions out of the below list. You can either do a self-exploration of these places or book guided tours to manage your schedule well.

• Battery Park
• Marvel at Oculus
• Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Explore the Trinity Church
• Visit the One World Trade Centre

Day 2: New York City – New Haven

Today we leave New York City and make our way to New Haven county.

New Haven is one of the most under-rated stops in New England, and it doesn’t get mentioned in most New York to Boston road trips, but it still is a worth exploring place.

New Haven boasts a fantastic dining scene here and numerous historical touchpoints. Tons of music shows, concerts, and events level up New Haven’s cultural essence every year. In addition to positive experiences, there are many sight-seeing points too – which you should visit during your trip to Boston.

Check the below-recommended activities which you can explore in New Haven –

Yale University

Yale University has been a pride of New Haven county, and it’s not only an essential landmark from a historical standpoint but also the most visited place in New Haven. During your stop, you can opt to take a guided tour of the university to learn more about its campus and history.

Most of the sections and pillars were built by well-known architects in the form of gothic architecture. Many of its rooms, halls, & libraries hold the same design – making it enjoyable to tour the university. Other places to see within the campus include the Center for British Art, the Art Gallery, the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, and the Peabody Museum.

You can also enjoy the complimentary morning tours led by campus students.

Connecticut Science Center

If you’re a fan of science exhibits, head to Connecticut Science Centre to explore 150+ displays of practical projects. These collections are mainly on the topics of science, covering space, biology, and other scientific discovery. The idea of this establishment is to engage children to proactively learn, inspire and develop their brainwork in these related fields.

Moreover, even parents find it interesting to engage in many of its live activities hosted within the center. The Science Alley and an Engineering Lab are its two most important spaces, showcasing live demonstrations of complex world problems.

So if you’re on a road trip to Boston with kids, the Connecticut Science Centre is undoubtedly the right place to stop by.

Experience the Summer Jazz Festival

New Haven sets up different venues featuring musical shows and concerts throughout the summer. This is meant to celebrate the diversity of jazz music and culture in the county.

So if you’re in town and come across any of these venues – make sure to attend one. Most institutions like the Neighborhood Music School, the New Haven Museum, and the Pardee-Morris House host jazz concerts around New Haven. Café Nine and Café a Vin also host popular shows for a limited time.

You can check the dates here for upcoming events.

Other than the experiences listed above, there’s a lot to do around New Haven county. As we mentioned before, the town is known to provide excellent gastronomy scenes to its visitors. Back in 2014, it was coined the “Best Foodie City in the US.” This award lets you explore different restaurants, cafes, and pubs in New Haven.

Overnight stay at New Haven.

Day 3: Essex, CT

The next stop on our New York to Boston road trip is the Essex.

The quaint town of Essex is only a 45-minute drive away from New Haven. Before arriving directly in Essex, there are multiple points along the Connecticut Coast to admire. Hence, ensure that you leave early in the morning to spend some time at each suggested location.

The first place to stop by is Norwalk. Known for its historic oyster industry, the place has special ties with its harbors and islands located offshore. It’s a great place for New Yorkers, who often hit Norwalk during the summers to take a cruise or boat ride.

When you arrive in Norwalk, take a small boat trip to the nearby Sheffield Island lighthouse. It will approx take you 45-minutes to get past the tiny islands located near Norwalk. The experts on the boat will brief you on the surrounding attractions located off the Long Island Sound. After you reach Sheffield Island, visit the Sheffield Lighthouse, established in 1868, or you can spend time strolling, picnicking, or exploring its walking trails.

Alternatively, you can explore the below two attractions of Norwalk – 

The Maritime Aquarium

The Maritime Aquarium is one of Norwalk’s most essential attractions. It houses more than 2,700 aquatic species spread across 75 different marine life exhibits. As you journey through the entire center, you’ll come across harbor seals, river otters, baby sharks, turtles, and jellyfish.

This aquarium has touch tanks that bank other marine life, including stingrays, starfish, and nurse sharks. Moreover, the place also has an IMAX theatre to offer visitors a visual display of marine life in action. With the surround sound and other lighting effects, the experience of watching these aquatic species is theatrical.

Visit SoNo

SoNo (South Norwalk) is the place to experience the vibrant neighborhood, arts, culture, shopping, and entertainment. The locals here are energetic as ever, guiding you to the location’s best-hidden spots and attractions.

The culinary scene in South Norwalk is incredible. With eateries and street stalls serving different cuisines, you can hog onto items that you may have never tried in life. When you’re in this neighborhood, it doesn’t matter what food preference you have – you ought to come across shops selling different items, including fish tacos, baklava, grilled cheeseburgers, sandwiches, sushi, and clam chowder.

After a brief exploration of Norwalk and its attractions, head to the town of Essex to spend a night. If time permits and your schedule fits right, you can always spend an extra day at Essex to explore its unique tourist spots. These include taking a ride on Essex Steam Train, cruising on the Connecticut River, exploring Gillette Castle, and many more sights.

Overnight at Essex.

Day 4: Newport, RI

Today, we depart early morning to make our way toward Newport, RI.

Newport seems like a different world altogether, and it’s a place where you can easily spend a long weekend discovering essential landmarks and historic sites. Of course, we can’t cover everything in this New York and Boston road trip – but we’ve suggested a few attractions that you should check out during your drive to Newport.

The Ocean Drive

With all the journey you’ve done so far to reach Newport, nothing can beat the experience of driving the 10-mile Ocean Drive stretch. No matter how many times you visit this place, the downright beauty of the coastal road will never fail to amaze you.

Once you reach Newport, unwind down at a cafe and grab some breakfast to rejuvenate yourself. After you’re settled in, start your Ocean Drive journey off the historic Bellevue Avenu (see the location here). Head straight and keep following the signs for Ocean Drive.

You’ll be greeted with Newport’s notable landmarks, including Fort Adams State Park, the Museum of Yachting, Sail Newport, and the Castle Hill Inn & Resort. The best part about the entire journey is seeing many beautiful homes, summer yachts, waterfront cafes, and spectacular views.

Further towards the south, you’ll locate Brenton Point, State Park. There’s free parking here, so you can park your car and enjoy the stunning ocean views for as long as you can.

As you continue your drive past Brenton Park, you’ll get the best close-up views of the Atlantic Ocean. Many private exclusive beaches, Hazard’s and Bailey’s, are not open to the public. But, you can unwind at Gooseberry beach to claim fantastic sunset views.

Discover Newport’s Mansions

The historic mansions located in Newport showcase a breath-taking charm of history, wealth, and architecture. Many of the grand villas belong to America’s most influential men and women. These mansions are their “summer cottages,” which get opened for guided tours to the public.

There are many mansions based in Newport, but these are the ones you should check out during your exploration –

• Rosecliff
• Marble House
• The Breakers
• Rough Point
• Chateau-sur-Mer

The Breakers and the Elms have the most impressive structure, and it’s also the busiest mansions of all – especially during the summers. These two mansions are open during the winter months to keep up with tours. Tickets will have to be purchased in advance to avoid full occupancy. To check the calendar of these mansions, visit this page.

To get more details on Newport’s mansions & guided tours, explore this website.

Overnight at Newport.

Day 5: Newport – Cape Cod

It’s finally time to leave Newport to make our way to Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Cape Cod is a popular summertime destination for tourists. With an expansive coastline of 40-miles, the place has become New England’s prime beach location. It has everything you need – from quaint villages and seafood shacks to ocean viewpoints and abandoned lighthouses.

While you’re here, Cape Cod will introduce you to endless touristic opportunities. While the whale watching tour steals the limelight, its long bike rides and theatrical music show add even more thrill to your perfect stay in Cape Cod.

We are sticking to a single overnight stay in Cape Cod for our New York to Boston road trip. However, feel free to extend your stay to discover more attractions & local experiences.

Below are some of the recommended activities to do in Cape Cod – 

Cape Cod Rail Trail

When you only have a single night’s stay at Cape Cod, you should make it a point to discover the Cape Cod Rail Trail. The trail is approx 27-miles long, making it entirely possible to cover the stretch in a day. The flat surface makes it easy for all grade-level bikers to ride across the trail. Every summer, many recreational cyclists arrive here to take on the adventure.

Since Cape Cod is one of the best bike trails in New England, there’s no shortage of restaurants housing the entire pathway. The Yarmouth-South Dennis section, in particular, has a great lineup of classic restaurants and cafes serving multi-cuisine food. Love home-made Italian food? Head to Gerardi’s Cafe located in South Yarmouth. Craving for continental and seafood? Make your way to Jason’s Tavern at South Dennis. There are plenty more along the trail, which you can find here.

Note: There are currently two rental bike shops in Cape Cod. One is Brewster Bike, where you can rent or purchase hybrid trek bikes; the other is the Rail Trail Bike & Kayak Shop, located on the Cape Cod Rail Trail itself. You can rent all biking-related accessories, equipment, and items.

Cape Cod National Seashore

Late in the afternoon, head to the eastern shore of Cape Cod to explore fantastic beaches, protective wildlife, and unique hiking trails. The vast 40-mile stretch features New England’s prime beaches, including Marconi Beach, Nauset Beach, and Herring Cove beach.

You can even stop by the visitors center to learn more about the region’s protective area and its shoreline history.

Wellfleet Drive-In

If you’re wondering how to spend your late evening at Cape Cod, then fret not – head to Wellfleet Drive-In to take a break from all the hustle you’ve been doing so far. With a playground next to the driving lot and a mini-golf course – Wellfleet Drive-In is a perfect family spot to relax, unwind and re-energize.

Moreover, the retro theatre experience is genuinely nostalgic. Your kids might not get the importance of this vibe; however, for you (parents), this is something you can’t miss.

Note: Tickets for adults and kids cost $15 and $10, respectively. Credit cards are not accepted here, so ensure you have some cash in hand. Furthermore, try to arrive at the box office around 7 pm to get a good seating spot.

Overnight at Cape Cod.

Day 6: Cape Cod – Boston

It’s time to finally hit the last stop of the New York and Boston road trip. We recommend you leave early in the morning to make sure you have ample time to relax in Boston.

Boston thrives on art, culture, history, and nightlife. There’s so much to do in the city that you can spare a separate itinerary for Boston. It’s also one of the significant locations in the history of the United States. It is where Boston Tea Party took place, which revolutionized the history of America.

But, there’s more to Boston than digging deeper into its history. Its vibrancy spreads across the city, indulging tourists in engaging in activities and events. The cutting-edge restaurants, unique performances, harbor cruise, and endless shopping opportunities make Boston a must-visit place in the United States.

We recommend the below activities to do in Boston – 

The Freedom Trail

Undoubtedly, the Freedom Trail is one of Boston’s prime tourist spots. It’s a 2.5-mile-long stretch that takes you across 16 historic sites in Boston. They are well interconnected, making you traverse between each of these attractions smoothly.

Start your Freedom Trail exploration at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center and continue down the path to visit King’s Chapel, Old State House, Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall, Old Corner Bookstore, Park Street Church, and Old North Church. For a detailed list, visit this page.

There are cute cafes, shops, museums, graveyards to discover, and these big names. If you ever feel tired or need a break, you can always stop for a coffee break. Moreover, the Freedom Trail is an excellent way to start your trip to Boston, and it’s instead a brief-exploration tour of famous attractions.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

When you visit museums, you often appreciate the artwork & displays stored inside. But the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum will change your mindset on how you look at museums. The building is just as beautiful as the artwork stored inside.

Isabella Stewart Gardner was an admirer of the art, and through her inspiration, she created this fabulous museum we see in Boston today. The whole place looks filled with gardens and small trees lined with patios, textiles, and archways. If you’re a collector of rare books, you’ll love discovering the old books preserved here.

Even if you’re not an admirer of the art, you’ll be fascinated with what’s stored inside the Isabella museum.

Relax at Boston Common

The city of Boston has its own Central Park in the form of Bostom Common. It’s one of the oldest public parks in America, housing all sorts of recreational activities & events.

It doesn’t matter in which season you travel, as Boston Common gives different experiences year-round. During winters, you can ice-skate on frog ponds, go sledding or snowboarding, while during summers, you can work out your body on tennis or basketball courts.

No matter what, it’s a perfect family place to stroll, picnic, and relax.

Visit the Boston Harbor

Boston Harbor carries a historical significance in the events in America’s history. While history remains intact, modern urbanization has brought a lively cultural essence to the place. Today, the Boston Harbor houses numerous museums, shipyards, landmarks, restaurants & cafes.

Furthermore, elevate your experience by taking a boat ride to the islands of Massachusetts. If not, pedal down the streets on a bike to tour galleries, shops, and quirky stalls selling unique souvenirs.

Optional Activities in Boston

If time permits, you can visit Encore, Boston’s mega-casino resort. This massive 210,000-sqft space includes 15+ restaurants, indoor & outdoor events, and plenty more. You can either go big, try your luck at the casino, or indulge in activities to admire the indoor beauty of Encore.

One of the fun things to do in Boston is go whale-watching. The surrounding waters of the harbor area make it ideal for spotting whales in their natural habitat. You can check these wonderful guided tours for more details.

Watch a game at Fenway Park. If you’re a baseball fan, surely make it a point to visit the Fenway Park stadium. It is known for its limited seating, precisely the same in 1912. Yes, it never got expanded, and it still offers the best close-up views of your favorite pitchers and batters.

Overnight in Boston.

Day 7: Boston

We are making the end of our epic New York to Boston road trip. You can further extend this road trip to other places beyond Boston or make modifications to adjust a couple of nights listed in this itinerary.

General FAQs for New York to Boston Road Trip

When is the best time to visit New York and Boston?
New York is instead the busiest place than Boston. Since these cities are year-round destinations, tourist places and landmarks are always at their peak. However, to ensure you have a pleasant experience, we recommend making a journey between April to June or September to November. Both the periods will offer mild temperatures and slightly thinner crowds.

How far is New York City to Boston?
If you were to travel from New York to Boston directly, it would approx take 3hr 45minutes (215 miles). Considering heavy traffic, the journey can take between 4.5 and 5 hours. However, regarding our New York to Boston road trip, we are stopping at multiple places/stops, covering an entire journey of 6hr 18minutes (330 miles).

What is the best route from NYC to Boston?
The most direct route to travel from NYC to Boston is Connecticut on I-84 E to I-90 E in Massachusetts. The road passes through the busy towns of New Haven and Connecticut, making it difficult during rush hours.

What are the other alternative sights to explore on our New York and Boston road trip?
Check this page to explore optional tours and activities for our New York to Boston road trip. The catalogue of guided tours will help you select the best exercises for this road trip.

Where to stay in New York and Boston?
To explore accommodation in New York and Boston, we recommend checking Tripadvisor. They provide the best listings at affordable rates (depending on the category).

Further Readings & Resources

New York City – 20 Free Things to Do in NYC: Discover the Best of New York
New York in Winter – 10 Best Things to Do In NYC at Christmas
Long Island, NY – Best Things to Do On Long Island in the Winter

Other American Itineraries

California – 10 Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Alaska – 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip
Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

The post New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022 appeared first on Travel Realms.

There’s no denying that, in this modern era, San Francisco is often considered ‘the technological hub’ of America. And for a fact, it’s true – because it houses most of the tech giants like – Apple, Google, Uber, and Facebook. It’s interesting to realize how these tech platforms impact our daily lives, also knowing it all comes from one city – San Francisco.

But then, that’s not all.

Along with being synonymous with ‘tech’, San Francisco is a renowned bustling city known for its revelatory architecture, vibrant community, and art & culture. The locals live their lives to the fullest in SFO whilst ensuring enough hustle for tourists like us.

To me, San Francisco is a pure outdoor city. From touring the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to exploring the waterfront areas, visiting the iconic Piers, and indulging in food & local experiences – the list is simply never-ending.

But, on the other hand, with so many activities & experiences to do in San Francisco – it’s often quite overwhelming for tourists to decide what to do, which places to visit, and where to eat. To make it simple, we have curated this definitive to-do bucket list for you – to discover some of the best things to do alone in San Francisco.

This guide is a bit comprehensive, covering 24 top activities in San Francisco – in addition to must-do experiences & must-see activities.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco is a year-round destination. The climate is moderate, with occasional heating months between June to October. That being said, the peak period to visit San Francisco is during July and August.

Mind you, if you plan to travel to San Francisco during this period – as you might be in for a jam-packed crowd. Hotel prices sky-rocket, attractions aren’t that cheap, plus tourist attractions are heavily crowded.

We recommend visiting Francisco in May, June, September, or October. We can’t guarantee the number of tourists flocking in – but indeed, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy activities in San Francisco.

THINGS TO DO ALONE IN SAN FRANCISCO

The list below will help you plan a perfect trip to San Francisco, including shortlisting top places to visit, unique things to do, and other fun & unusual experiences.

1. VISIT THE ICONIC GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

The world’s iconic artificial structure is tucked away between San Francisco and Marin Country – Golden Gate Bridge. Along with being San Francisco’s trademark, it’s been declared one of the world’s marvels.

In 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge stood proudly overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. Before its actual construction, it wasn’t easy for the locals to travel across the city. They mainly used ferries to travel to the other side, popularly known as the ‘Golden State Ferry Company’.

The Golden Gate Bridge can be seen almost anywhere within the city, especially if you’re cruising past the bridge. The view gets better when you’re driving across – staring at the skylines on one side and nature. It doesn’t matter where you go or which place you visit in San Francisco – Golden Gate becomes a must-see experience.

I personally don’t think anyone who has visited San Francisco before- missed out on gazing at this marvel. It’s true of its kind, and you should add it to your San Francisco bucket-list activity right now!

2. TOUR THE ALCATRAZ ISLAND

Exploring Alcatraz is definitely one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco. It’s worth your time to take a guided tour of the island, even though you’re short on time. Often, Alcatraz is mistaken for its ‘prison tour’ only, which is not the truth. The island is much more than a guided tour, with many of our fellow readers rating it as one of the ‘stand-out’ experiences of their time in San Francisco.

Initially, Alcatraz was built considering the need of having military fortification. It was popularly known for its federal prison between 1933 and 1963. Post which, it got closed because of financial maintenance. Today, it’s become a tourist attraction – pulling in millions of visitors every year.

Note: Practically, it’s impossible to turn up and purchase tickets for your Alcatraz tour, and it’s best recommended to book them in advance to avoid any last moment hassles. If you’re interested in guided excursions, then check these fantastic excursions.

3. VIBE AT UNION SQUARE

Union Square San Francisco is a shopping paradise for tourists. Being the third-largest shopping space in the United States, one could get easily lost here, exploring the vibrancy of each shop.

It started gaining some traction in the early 1900s, as visitors across the globe started coming to see this area. Union Square has become an epicentre of upscaled shops, boutique stores, and luxury essence. Most of the shops here feature clothing, DIY products, and other artworks.

It’s a whole new world within San Francisco to discover anything you need to buy. So, keep your wallets ready because the prices are high.

Apart from the shopping experience, Union Square is famously known for its active nightlife. You’ll find concerts, live events, and shows to keep you entertained on any given day. And this place gets better every day, thus making it one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco at night.

4. CULTURAL COMMUNITY OF CHINATOWN

You can find Chinatown in major cities across the globe, but the one in San Francisco is the oldest & most established one. There are four Chinatowns in the city, amongst which ‘Grant Avenue’ is the biggest & most popular.

From exploring the streets of Chinatown to trying out delicious dim sum and soup – it’s easy to get lost in this tiny world. The hustle of the locals starts from the Dragon Gate to China Live, where you’ll find numerous shops, stalls, and restaurants galore. You can easily spend a day here, wandering off the alleys and browsing local shops.

A fact? Chinatown pulls in more visitors each year than the Golden Gate Bridge. Interesting right? And, I don’t find it hard to believe – especially with the eclectic atmosphere the neighbourhood boasts.

Also, if you’re looking to hog some traditional Chinese cuisine, there’s no better place than Chinatown in San Francisco. Indulge yourself in various authentic dishes the neighbourhood presents and sincerely treat yourself.

5. MARVEL AT FISHERMAN’S WHARF + PIER 39

Fisherman’s Wharf is a ‘must-visit’ attraction in San Francisco. Located in the northern part of the city, this historic waterfront is a vital touristic space filled with hundreds of souvenir shops and world-class restaurants. It truly feels nice to be here, especially if you’re coming down to San Francisco for the first time.

If you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 is where you need to head. It’s home to San Francisco’s dynamic environment – housing the Aquarium of the Bay, Ghirardelli Square, and fun-filled arousing arcades. And not to forget, this is the only place in San Francisco where you can ogle sea lions.

Once you’re done exploring, the most important thing you need to do is try out fantastic food at Fisherman’s Wharf. The stalls located across the stretch specialize in selling crab and clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. Moreover, if you’re a fish lover, I might suggest trying ‘Cioppino’.

6. ENJOY SAN FRANCISCO’S CABLE CAR RIDE

None gets unique from all the activities you do than riding on a cable car in San Francisco. More than being a world-renowned transport system, cable cars have become a symbol representing the city’s iconic culture. It’s been 150 years since its inception, yet these rides have been in tip-top shape. Sadly, only three cable cars remain to date, keeping tourists and locals happy about their service.

Riding a cable car in San Francisco is pretty simple. There are three main routes you can choose – California Line, Powell-Hyde Line, and Powell-Mason Line. These routes operate differently, offering breathtaking views of the city’s nature & cultural attractions. However, most locals residing in San Francisco will often agree that Powell-Hyde Line is best.

The route gives you better views of major attractions of the San Francisco – Bay Area, Alcatraz Island, and Coit Tower. It also passes through Union Square and Nob Hill, where the views are simply unbeaten.

If you need to purchase tickets for these cable car rides, I recommend using the SFMTA’s official ticketing app – MuniMobile. More information on ticket prices for single-car rides can be found here.

7. CITY TOUR OF SAN FRANCISCO

The best possible way to get maximum out of San Francisco is to book a guided city tour. This becomes one of the most feasible options for travellers who are short on time or don’t want to spend much effort wandering off.

I recommend doing this Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour of San Francisco – which introduces you to the city with a glance. From the comfort of your seat, marvel at the legendary attractions of San Francisco and discover fascinating history & culture whilst touring.

The tour covers all the essential key points of interest & landmarks of San Francisco – including Pier 41, Ferry Building, Golden Gate Park, Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square, Washington Square, Palace of Fine Arts, Civic Center, Marina Neighborhood, and Lombard Street Corridor. This tour operator has several other options for you to choose from before booking any special guided tour. You even can go for the ‘Panoramic Night Tour’ of San Francisco.

8. VISIT THE GHIRARDELLI SQUARE

Lined with upscale shops, wineries, and fantastic chocolate shops, Ghirardelli Square is one of San Francisco’s premier destinations. The reason why you should visit Ghirardelli Square is its history.

Initially, the square was formerly a prestigious chocolate factory founded by Domenico Ghirardelli in 1852. He was born and brought up in Italy and worked as a young confectioner. As time passed, the founder became well-known for its coffee and chocolate-producing skills.

Eventually, he stayed in San Francisco, where the Ghirardelli Chocolate factory was set up. Today, it’s a popular fair housing fancy stores, restaurants, and ice-cream stalls.

9. EXPLORE FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE

Ferry Building Marketplace stands as one of San Francisco’s essential landmarks. It is known for its two-fold status; one represents historical architecture, and the other showcases the city’s culinary scene. It becomes a one-stop platform for tourists and locals to eat, share and celebrate the food culture of SF.

Since it is San Francisco’s largest farmers market – expect you to get all types of local produce & items. The stalls are packed with fresh veggies, farm fruits, meat, and frozen goods. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – the Ferry Building Marketplace explodes with farmers and rangers selling artisan food and wine produce.

Recommended: Read more on Ferry Building’s world-class restaurants, market days, and nearby attractions in this amazingly detailed guide.

10. TWISTED LANES OF LOMBARD STREET

Visiting Lombard Street is one of the best things to do alone in San Francisco. And rightly so, because of its uniquely ‘crooked zig-zag street’.

The best way to explore Lombard Street in SF is to reach the top by taking the Hyde Street cable car. Once you reach the upper area, you can either walk down the steps or bike to marvel at the beautiful mansions surrounding the Lombard.

If you have a car, you can drive down this street for a thrilling experience.

11. WATCH THE PAINTED LADIES

There are dozens of beautiful houses – probably hundreds – found across San Francisco’s neighbourhood. Many of them are based in Cole Valley, Haight-Ashbury, and Lower Haight. But, one particular stretch that will catch your attention – is the Edwardian houses located on 710-720 Steiner Street of Hayes Street.

These decorated Victorian houses have been referred to as ‘the Painted Ladies‘. Yes, the name is a bit weird – but it makes sense considering how beautiful they look with vibrant subtle colours. Interestingly, these houses have been featured in more than 70 movies, ads, and other TV shows.

Since people live in these houses, you can’t enter them – but you can catch a great view from the hillside of Alamo Square.

12. INDULGE IN SAN FRANCISCO’S LOCAL CUISINE

San Francisco is home to some of the hottest bars, most fabulous restaurants, and iconic street vendors. Tourists have vividly praised its long, storied food scene, and the city’s been actively involved in scaling its culinary world within its neighbourhoods.

From trying out the signature Mission-style burritos and Cioppino to clam chowder bread bowl, there’s no shortage of trying San Francisco’s typical local food. Its famous Egg custard tarts, prime ribs, and Swedish pancakes have been growing in popularity for a decade, and it’s something you can’t miss on your first visit.

If hogging is your thing, or maybe you want to get introduced to SF’s famous gastronomical culture, check these must-eat dishes in San Francisco. Or find this guide to SF’s remarkable restaurants. No matter what you try, indulging in SF’s cuisine is one of the best things to do alone.

13. GAZE THE CITY FROM THE TWIN PEAKS

Many visitors who travel to San Francisco for the first time often miss out on exploring the Twin Peaks. It’s one of the most underrated, gorgeous tourist attractions, which can only be appreciated by visiting.

Elevated at 922 feet, the Twin Peaks offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area. The two peaks are adjacent, giving you full access to gaze at the city’s shimmering skylines. Most tourists often drive, walk or bike the north peak to enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco.

Initially, the peaks were known as ‘Los Pechos de la Choca’ (Breasts of the Maiden). It’s densely filled with a mix of grassland and coastal scrub. You can even expect to spot animals like lupine, coyotes, and rabbits. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see the endangered mission blue butterfly.

Travel Tip: One of the best ways to explore the Twin Peaks is to walk the 0.7-mile trail. It passes between the peaks that lead to the north point overlook. You can further continue down Twin Peaks Blvd by taking the ‘Creek to Peaks Trail‘ (1.2-mile). Stay on track and follow the rules laid on these established trails.

14. VISIT MODERN ART IN THE CITY

If exploring museums excites you, the Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco will surely enhance your experience. Housing more than 29,000 pieces of artwork, paintings, sculptures, and modern architecture – the Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is the actual of its kind.

The museum is almost 80 years old, but it went through infrastructural changes in 2016. Today, it boasts a ten-story 170,000 square and 16 more exhibition galleries and ground-floor exhibits. It won’t be a surprise if you get lost in the museum, admiring every modern art piece displayed in each section.

Travel Q – How much does a ticket to SFMOMA cost?

Visitors residing in San Francisco with valid CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or EBT cards can visit SFMOMA. If you’ve purchased an annual membership ($100), admission is free and other museum-based benefits. For tourists, the general admission costs $25. You can check more details on pricing here.

15. RELAX AT DOLORES PARK

Surrounding an area of 16 acres, Mission Dolores Park is one of the most vibrant parks in San Francisco. Its energetic atmosphere matches up relatively equally with the diverse neighbourhood harbouring the park.

Mission Dolores Park in San Francisco is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Come at any hour, and you’ll seek peace, friendly locals, and bustling activities around the park. Moreover, the park is well-known for the many festivals, performances, and cultural events it boasts.

On weekends, during sunny afternoons – you’ll find all sorts of visitors enjoying a picnic with their friends and families. People walk their dogs, youth enjoy their sports, and elderly citizens gossip about their routine.

It’s not only the environment that makes Mission Dolores Park a must-visit place in San Francisco, and you’ll soon realize this park is the best place to catch the views of the downtown skyline.

16. EXPLORE THE PALACE OF FINE ARTS

Constructed in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the Palace of Fine Arts has been a long-lasting San Francisco icon. It’s been coined as the city’s ‘Designated Landmark’ and listed under the U.S National Register of Historic Places.

The Palace of Fine Arts makes a perfect place for families to stroll and picnic around. It’s not usually crowded in the morning, but you’ll start seeing crowds late in the afternoon. Often so, you’ll see wedding shoots happening around the area. The grounds of these building has been an iconic place for couples to shoot prenuptial photos & videos.

Apart from touring the site, the Palace of Fine Arts also has a theatre – featuring musical performances, comedy acts, and live shows. You’ll need to purchase tickets for these events before their dates.

17. TRY BURRITOS IN SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco’s burrito game has been so strong that it’s still a significant ongoing debate about who produces the best in the city. To start, burritos are an integral food icon in San Francisco, and it makes a perfect go-to-lunch option for any traveller/local exploring the city. But, no matter which one you try – the best remains the ‘Mission-style burritos.’

But, nowadays, anything wrapped in a tortilla qualifies to become a burrito. It’s commonly found everywhere, almost on every street corner or a food stall. Some sell burritos in an Indian fashion (mixing spicy masalas), whereas others with other classic fusions of Filipino and Korean ingredients.

Whether you go or which place you visit – trying out a burrito in SF is a must!

Recommended: 16 Lip-Smacking Burritos in San Francisco.

18. SAN FRANCISCO BOTANICAL GARDEN

There’s nothing more relaxing and peaceful than touring the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Based in Golden Gate Park, this 75-year old garden spreads across 55 acres, housing numerous plant and flower species. Most of the flora has been collected from different parts like Asia, South America, and Central America.

Amidst the gardens, stone-laden paths and paved trails lead you to more significant parts of this sprawling area. With over 8,000 different plants, there’s much to see and study as you wander around. The garden is also home to a unique collection of magnolias.

One of the most exciting areas is the Garden of Fragrance, where visitors get a chance to sniff sweet-smelling flowers and plants like lavender, rockrose, and lemon verbena.

Visit the official website of San Francisco Botanical Gardens to get more details on tickets and pricing.

19. DAY TRIP TO ANGEL ISLAND

Angel Island is a popular getaway destination from San Francisco. Many travellers who often explore San Francisco take a day trip to Angel Island for a quick off-beat experience.

You can reach the island by ferry and then take a guided tour or open-air tram to explore further. The island isn’t as lively as you might think, but with a small population of 60 people living – you can still be sure of finding interesting viewpoints and hidden gems.

Angel Island lines up fantastic cafes and restaurants. Nothing gets better than a quick lunch with a coastal view. You’ll find events and live music bustling across the island most of the time. Make sure you check an event that might be happening before your visit.

20. SUNSET CRUISE AT SAN FRANCISCO

Nothing can beat the experience of cruising past the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, and it’s probably the thing many visitors dream of whilst spotting other nearby attractions from the cruise.

If you’re in San Francisco for the first time, never let go of this opportunity – to book a sunset cruise. There are daily departures from Fisherman’s Wharf, taking you past the waterfront areas, under the bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

As you sail through, marvel at the lively neighbourhoods of North Beach, historic vessels at Hyde Street Pier, lush greenery of Presidio and Crissy Field, and the city’s breathtaking skylines as they fade underneath the sun’s sparkling rays.

21. DISCOVER SAN FRANCISCO’S BEACHES

San Francisco’s craggy coastline makes the city itself a better choice for exploring its surrounding beaches. The moody weather and beach-driven activities along the rugged stretches entice visitors to discover and enjoy their time.

Despite the modern setting of San Francisco, the beaches located here are surprisingly unspoiled, protected and preserved. While most beaches are located outside of the city, some are located within San Francisco – Ocean Beach and Baker Beach.

Suppose you feel like taking a day trip from San Francisco, head south to Half Moon Bay. It’s a popular getaway destination for residents staying in San Francisco. Even further towards the south lies the famous beaches of Pescadero State and San Gregorio.

22. EXCURSION TO JAPANESE TEA GARDENS

Japanese Tea Gardens in San Francisco feels entirely like a whole new world. The contrasting colours, the maples trees, and the cherry blossom flowers bloom brightly all add to your experience of visiting this garden.

Explore the Japenese Tea Gardens by strolling around, walking through the manicured terraces, stone paths, and cute little arched bridge. Learn more about its traditions and culture, and later head to Tea House for a cuppa.

23. GO HIKING IN SAN FRANCISCO

Hiking is an unusual thing to do in San Francisco. However, this modern metropolis arguably offers the best hiking trails in the Californian state.

San Francisco boasts dozens of hiking opportunities for you to explore. The most popular ones are the Creek to Peaks trail and Presidio’s Bay Ridge Trail, and they are simply the best to enjoy the city’s natural landscape wonders. Moreover, these paths are not strenuous as you might think but instead offers a smooth experience for visitors.

Some of the hiking spots in San Francisco, such as Bernal Heights Park, Lands End, and Buena Vista Park, rival the wilderness beauty of the modern city. If you’re in San Francisco and have the time to take an early morning hike, then do explore these trails.

24. WHALE TOURS IN SAN FRANCISCO

One of the interesting things to do in San Francisco is to take guided boat tours to watch blue whales and humpbacks. These large animals are often found near San Francisco’s coast between April and November.

Often, these tours are led by experts who are well-versed in identifying opportunities to seek a glance at these whales. If you travel during the migration period, you are ought to get a chance to witness grey whales in their natural habitat.

Further Readings & Resources

Hope you enjoyed reading our list of things to do alone in San Francisco. For other American travels, we got some exciting articles & newly-curated itineraries for you to check –

Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone
Alaska – 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip
Alaska – 9 Day Alaska Itinerary: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau
Canada – Canadian Rockies Mountain: 8 Day Itinerary to the Mountains
Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary

The post 24 Best Things to Do Alone in San Francisco appeared first on Travel Realms.

The wits and charm of the Californian state burst with sunshine and a new sense of adventure. It’s one of the most visited states in the United States, and there are plenty of reasons to justify why.

California is definitely one of my favorite places in America, and I can just go on for thousand words on why you need to visit this place. It has got everything you need – right from good weather, fantastic theme parks, astounding landscapes, iconic national parks, and incredible hiking trails – there’s so much to do and experience in California.

With this in mind, I wanted to put an amazing 10 day California road trip itinerary. It’s a surreal experience for those, willing to dare take on an adventurous journey across the coastal and inland areas. The itinerary curated comprises great stopovers, fantastic views, and a great opportunity to indulge in Californian activities and experiences.

So if you’re planning a 10 day trip to California, then this guide + itinerary will help you kick off a great American journey from your bucket list.

Overview of the 10 Day California Road Trip

The schedule designed for the 10 day California itinerary starts and ends in Los Angeles. As you drive through Highway 1, you will come across some of the important highlights of California.

Alongside the coastal landmarks, we also take a detour to travel the inland region of the state to see the mighty Yosemite National Park. With two full days of excursion planned, you can explore the park’s famous hiking trails and landscapes.

Moreover, you can completely customize this itinerary as per your travel preference and style. Feel free to include, exclude or add more days and destinations in the plan – as you finalize your travel to California.

Road Trip Layout for 10 Day California Itinerary

Day 1: Los Angeles – Santa Margarita
Day 2: Santa Margarita – Santa Cruz
Day 3: Santa Cruz – San Francisco
Day 4: San Francisco
Day 5: San Francisco – Yosemite National Park
Day 6: Yosemite National Park
Day 7: Yosemite National Park
Day 8: Yosemite National Park – Hermosa Beach
Day 9: Hermosa Beach
Day 10: Hermosa – Los Angeles

Highlights of the 10 days California Road Trip –

• Explore Santa Monica Pier and Beach.
• Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park & other coastal towns.
• Full-Day city tour of San Francisco.
• Visit San Francisco’s best wineries.
• Exploration of Yosemite National Park.
• Relax at Hermosa Beach.

During your 10 day trip in California, you will frequently from one place to another, meaning you’ll need to block/reserve hotels or campsites well in advance. But this also means that you get to visit a new place every day.

Detailed 10 Day California Road Trip

Day 1: Los Angeles – Santa Margarita

Arrive in Los Angeles and then drive to Santa Monica.

For locals living in LA, Santa Monica is their go-to beach spot. Its proximity from Los Angeles’ main center, makes Santa Monica a perfect base for travelers to relax, unwind and loosen out. Being one of the most famous beach-front resorts in California, Santa Monica offers endless water-sport activities, family entertainment, and a relaxed vibe to enjoy the nightlife.

So before you kick off this California road trip itinerary, here are some of the best things you could do in Santa Monica –

Visit the Santa Monica Pier and Beach – With a shoreline of 3 ½ miles, Santa Monica State Beach boasts excellent beach-walking trails, soft sands, and a bevy of other attractions. As you walk along the shoreline, you’ll soon spot the famous Original Muscle Beach (featured in films and movies) which was inspired by a 1930 era beach park. But, perhaps, what will catch your attention – is the famous Santa Monica Pier.

The pier is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the U.S, stretching from Colorado Boulevard to the end of Route 66. Not only you’ll encounter some of the best scenic views, but also viewpoints to capture amazing photos.

Recommended: Want to explore Los Angeles in your Californian vacation? Read this guide on – 10 Day Itinerary Los Angeles.

Explore the Third Street Promenade – A popular shopping destination, known to lure visitors to buy anything & everything. The open-air mall houses some of the biggest known brands like H&M, Urban Outfitters, and boutiques like Bookseller Inc., and Puzzle Zoo. You’ll also find exciting happening restaurants & cafes to grab lunch here. If you rather prefer cooking your own meal, then head to the farmers market which happens between 8 a.m to 1 p.m.

What’s more? Take up a Santa Monica biking tour or fulfill your inner child’s adventure at Pacific Park.

In the evening, drive north to reach Santa Margarita to stay overnight.

Day 2: Santa Margarita – Santa Cruz

Explore best sights along Highway 1.

Today is all about having a scenic drive-through experience of Highway 1 from Santa Margarita to Santa Cruz.

Approx. distance: 172 miles (115 km)
Approx. traveling time: 3 hrs 15 mins
Stops: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Monterey, and Caramel

As you scan the incredible scenery whilst journeying through the coastal route of California, you will stop at three different stops along the way –

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – Loved by locals and tourists, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is one of the popular stops along the California road trip. The park is a complete feast for the eyes, boasting excellent hiking opportunities and easy-to-moderate trails for everyone. In total, there are seven trails leading you to mini waterfalls, redwood-clad forests, and curved coves.

The shortest to complete is the Waterfall Overlook Trail. It leads visitors to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park’s best highlight – McWay Falls. The area is loaded with all sorts of geological features, making it a must-visit spot inside the park.

Venture deep into the forests, discover more waterfalls and please your eyes with the scenic beauty of this amazing Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Caramel – Your second stopover point will be Caramel – a small beach city, well-known for amazing coastline views. Explore the beach walkways, from where you can spot dolphins swimming (if lucky), then head to Point Lobos – renowned for bird and whale-watching. Later, make a short visit to Garrapata State Park – one of the hidden gems of Caramel – to soak in enchanting views of the ocean and rising cliffs.

Monterey – This will be your final stop of the day. The town itself looks very small, but it’s packed with attractions and other experiences. First, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn more about marine life and underwater treasures. Then, make a stop at the 17-Mile Drive to spend some leisure time at the bay. If lucky, you can easily spot seals and pelicans basking on the rocky cliffs. Finally, end your day by strolling around the town to shop for groceries or other commodities.

Overnight at Santa Cruz.

Recommended: Planning to explore California’s amazing National Parks? Check out this California itinerary for 7 days from G Adventuers.

Day 3: Santa Cruz – San Francisco

Highlights of San Francisco.

The city of San Francisco never fails to amaze you with its charming beauty! Be it anything – counter-culture roots, friendly neighborhoods, beaches, parks, eclectic music scenes, and gastronomical delights, visiting San Francisco is a definitive experience.

Approx. distance: 79 miles (127 km)
Approx. traveling time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Stops: Half Moon Bay

For me, San Francisco is all about exploring the outdoors and greeting locals. You meet so many people out there, who come from different nations and backgrounds, that it’s delightful to have friends in such lively cities.

Before you head out to the main city, stop by Half Moon Bay. It’s a cute little town, where many locals from the Bay Area come for a short weekend getaway. Moreover, you’ll be spoiled with the choices that Half Moon Bay presents within its circle. Visit its main attractions such as Pidgeon Point Lighthouse, Pumpkin Patches, and Harley Farms Goat Dairy.

Alternatively, you can relax at Half Moon Bay’s beaches before heading out to San Francisco.

Best things to do in San Francisco –

City tour of San Francisco – The best way to let San Francisco introduce you, is to hop on a guided city tour. Discover the best sights of San Francisco in the comfort of a double-decker bus, and spot landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alamo Square, Union Square South, Ferry Building, Washington Square, Lombard Street Corner, Haight Ashbury, and Pier 39.

Explore the Waterfront and Alcatraz Prison – In this tour, check out San Francisco’s prominent landmarks that feature excellent coastline views along with Golden Gate Bridge. Visit the market areas near the waterfront and drool over fresh produces that includes crab and clam chowder in bread bowls. Later, delve into the history of the city by exploring the Barbary Coast. Post your waterfront tour, board a ferry to cruise Alcatraz Island. Learn some interesting insights and deep history as you tour the cell houses of Alcatraz.

Visit Haight-Ashbury – Tour the vibrant neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury, which was once known for the hippie movement in the 60s. The place is renowned for great music, culture, and bustling cafes. Moreover, trying out local food in this lovely neighborhood is a must.

Golden Gate Bay Cruise – There’s no better way to end your first day in San Francisco by hopping on a sunset cruise. As you sail along the city’s breath-taking waterfront, watch the Golden Gate Bridge soaring high in all its glory. It’s a dreamy moment for tourists to witness this magnificent bridge once in their lifetime. Later, sail past San Francisco’s other highlights such as Aquatic Park, Maritime National Park, and vessels at Hyde Street Pier.

Finally, end your trip spotting sea lions basking at Pier 39 and Pier 43.

Overnight at San Francisco.

Recommended: Our most popular guide – 24 Best Things to Do in San Francisco.

Day 4: San Francisco

Wine Country Tour of California.

It’s time to break the cycle and leave the city’s bustling vibe to enrich a quieter experience of California. This full-day guided tour of Muir Woods Redwood is a perfect excursion to get introduced to the Californian wine regions.

Explore Muir Woods Redwoods – Before you visit the wineries of Sonoma and Napa valleys, start off your tour by exploring the Muir Woods National Monument. It’s a great place to relax, as you walk through the giant sequoia trees of Muir.

Post your exploration, head to Glen Ellen for your first wine tasting tour. The Sonoma Valley has a rich reputation in both history and delivering the best chardonnays across the country. It houses beautiful rustic farms, scenic vineyards, and idyllic small towns. As you experience your wine tasting session, indulge & learn more about its craft and behind-the-process. Afterward, enjoy a freshly cooked lunch in Sonoma Plaza.

Take a break, explore the vineyards and then continue your way to tour wineries in Napa and Schellville region. Go for a second round to taste highly produced wines cultivated from grapes and other specialties.

This marks the end of your trip. You will also get some leisure time in the evening to roam around San Francisco at your own pace.

What’s more? If you’re not done with San Francisco yet, then head to visit two of the city’s popular indoor attractions – the California Academy of Sciences and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. You can either do one of these activities or do both (if time permits).

Day 5: San Francisco – Yosemite National Park

Arrive at Yosemite National Park.

As you leave the bustling city of San Francisco behind, it’s time to go scenic towards the inland area of this California road trip itinerary. Surrounded by the mighty Yosemite National Park, the region is filled with abundant activities made for all age groups. Right from hiking, trekking, and camping within Yosemite – there is always something to discover when you spend a few days.

Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the third-oldest national park. Millions of travelers visit the Yosemite Valley to soak the nature-based aura and adventurous spirit of the park. It’s truly delightful to find yourselves far from the chaos of city life, to experience and enjoy what Yosemite has to offer.

Approx. distance: 179 miles (288 km)
Approx. traveling time: 3 hrs 25 mins
Stops: Central Valley

Before heading out to Yosemite, stop at the Central Valley for a break and explore the morning markets organized by sellers from different regions. Get yourself re-energized and continue your path towards the valley.

Most of your day is paced leisurely, as we want you to get familiarized with the beautiful Yosemite Valley. Even if you aren’t backpacking, you are ought to stumble across the valley one way or another.

Yosemite Valley is home to some of the park’s stunning attractions, including Tunnel View Outlook and some majestic waterfalls – Bridalveil Fall, Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and Yosemite Falls. Even, the world’s greatest monolith, El Capitan, is based in this park.

Spend your day exploring the above-mentioned viewpoints and waterfalls, and further stroll the park’s surroundings to capture amazing photos of Yosemite.

Overnight at Yosemite National Park.

Day 6: Yosemite National Park

Exploring Mariposa Grove, May Lake, and Mount Hoffman.

Visit the Mariposa Grove – Head to Mariposa Grove to witness an expansive collection of giant sequoia trees. Mariposa being the highlight amongst all is one of the most visited places in Yosemite. The difference between other groves and Mariposa is that the latter houses more than 500 large sequoia trees (which are 1,000 years old).

Along with Mariposa, other attractions like Fallen Monarch and the Grizzly Giant have gained visitors’ attention. Moreover, there’s California Tunnel Tree – where you can see a tunnel being carved from the middle of its trunk.

The best way to appreciate the groves is to embark on scenic trails. This may range depending on the level (easy to moderate), but can be suitable for anyone with normal fitness. I recommend taking up the Big Trees Loop Trail, which is an easy hike, with 30-45 minutes of exploration between the sequoia trees.

Post your exploration, relax and rejuvenate with a nice lunch.

May Lake and Mount Hoffman Excursion – The second portion of your day involves hiking to May Lake and Mount Hoffman. These are moderate-based trails, with strenuous paths and uphill stretches. Make sure, you are equipped with sturdy hiking boots and other gear.

Nestled at the base of granite cliffs, sits the picturesque May Lake. In addition to its scenery, Mount Hoffman compliments well as its stunning backdrop. It’s best seen, often during a sunrise or sunset. However, a visit during the entire day is anytime rewarding. The best part about visiting May Lake is that it’s not heavily crowded. Unlike Mirror Lake, you will find few visitors coming down the trail but not many.

If you’re up for a challenge, then continue past May Lake to hike Mount Hoffman. Because of its centric geographical location, Mount Hoffman provides 360-degree views of Yosemite’s stunning landscape. Spend some time, and later in the evening head back to your hotel/campsite for dinner.

Travel Q – Is Yosemite National Park open in the winter?
Yosemite National Park is a year-round destination. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, in winter due to heavy snowfall, some roads are closed (usually from November through May or June). Due to road blockades, vehicles are not permitted to travel via certain regions. You can find more details later in the section below.

Overnight at Yosemite.

Day 7: Yosemite National Park

Walk the Mist Trail.

Pump your adrenaline senses, as you explore more of Yosemite’s incredible hikes and scenic trails. Today is all about exploring the Mist Trail, which houses two of the park’s unique sights – Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.

In order to get to the top, you first need to climb 600-step granite steps, that take you close enough to the waterfalls. From here, the hike is predominantly uphill and will require a moderate fitness level to complete the stretch till Vernal Fall. Its 2½-mile roundtrip will be approx. take you 3 hours to complete.

For an advanced hike, continue farther upward to complete the entire stretch up till Nevada Fall. With an elevation of 1,000 feet, the roundtrip will be approx. take five to six hours. As challenging as the trail is, the vantage points on the top seems to account for every drop of sweat.

Note: The hike to reach Nevada Fall is strenuous and quite difficult. It is only meant for those who are pro-hikers, or rather with excellent fitness levels. You can skip the portion, and alternatively take up the John Muir Trail which is relatively easy.

Many travelers find the Mist Trail to be the best they have ever taken. It’s often recommended by locals and guides when you visit Yosemite. However, be prepared with good hiking gear as you take on this path. Bring along a poncho, or extra pair of clothes in case you get drenched near the falls.

Overnight at Yosemite.

Day 8: Yosemite National Park – Hermosa Beach

Shimmering beaches of Hermosa.

It’s time to bid farewell to Yosemite National Park, as we journey the vast rolling hills of Central Valley to reach Hermosa. After a brief exploration of Yosemite and its dense forests, it will be refreshing to see Californian beaches in action during the golden hour.

Approx. distance: 291 miles (468 km)
Approx. traveling time: 4 hrs 58 mins
Stops: None

Hermosa Beach is an introduction to what a laid-back and surfer lifestyle looks like. Out of all the beachfront towns in Los Angeles, Hermosa Beach is the least formal. It’s truly a perfect place to relax your senses, get away from stress-busting life, and discover plenty of beach-driven activities.

That’s not all, as Hermosa Beach houses the priciest real estate in the Californian state. Down by the shoreline, cafes, and restaurants line up to deliver the best seafood lunch, whilst the enthusiasts will surely go for a volleyball game.

Free time at Hermosa Beach – Take full advantage of your leisure time exploring Hermosa Beach. Walk the vast shoreline, capture sunsets, and go out for a nice meal at your preferred restaurant.

Overnight at Hermosa Beach.

Day 9: Hermosa Beach

Explore Hermosa Beach.

It’s time to slay the Californian way, as you explore plenty of activities at Hermosa. Either walk, bike, or surf to discover the golden beach, or simply relax soaking in some sunshine.

Things to do in Hermosa Beach –

Bike along the strand – One of the popular activities that visitors like to take, is to bike along the strand that runs parallel to the beach. The Strand is a straight cement path, surrounded by pricy real estate properties and swanky houses. The climate is always perfect here, as you’ll often stumble across joggers, skaters, dog walkers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. Biking along the strand not only provides sweeping views of the coastline but also the kind of activities people are engaged with. Moreover, it’s certainly a great place to fantasize about your future summer home near the strand.

Go surfing – Californian beaches are a paradisal site for surf-lovers. Hermosa Beach especially is a perfect place to start out surfing if you’re just an entry-level beginner. You can enroll yourself in a private class or a surf camp with Aqua Surf and Wavehuggers to learn basic skills. No matter how bad you’re at surfing, it’s fun to try out surfing in California.

Overnight at Hermosa Beach.

Day 10: Hermosa Beach – Los Angeles

Departure from Los Angeles.

Head back to Los Angeles to catch your flight back home. If you got some time in the morning, you can probably go out and explore Los Angeles city. Additionally, you can extend this itinerary to spend a couple of days more in LA and other counterparts such as – Disneyland Park, Universal Studios Hollywood, Long Beach, and Solana Beach.

This marks the end of your 10 Days in California.

Planning Tips for 10 Day California Road Trip

Planning a California trip itinerary requires thorough research, especially when you’re doing everything on your own. Although it’s fun, and traveling individually gives you maximum flexibility – but there are some essential things to consider prior to your travel.

Below are some of my tips & suggestions, which can help you give an idea of what to expect when in California. This is simply a high overview of important things, but I’ll ensure to link you through additional resources & guides.

When Should You Take a California Road Trip

Due to its climate and moderate temperatures, California becomes a year-round destination. However, there are certain things that you should be aware of while planning a road trip to California.

Usually, in places like Yosemite National Park, certain roads are closed due to heavy snowfall. The main road, leading you inside the park i.e. the Tioga Road is closed during winter (November to May or June). Moreover, certain areas within the park are restricted as well.

If this happens to you on tour, you might have to change your plans or consider a detour to get inside Yosemite Park. In such circumstances, the best alternative is to reach Lake Tahoe for winter-recreational activities. You can even head out far east, all the way to Las Vegas depending on your duration.

Having said that, the best time of year to drive California coast is late spring (April) or in the fall (September to October). This is the period when California brims with bustling tourists & exciting outdoor activities.

Where to Stay in California

California is home to a serious range of accommodation, catering to all types of travelers. Be it budget, or luxury – California will have the right property for you to stay in.

When it comes down to road trips, the only advice I could give you – is to book hotels well-in-advance.

If you don’t, it’s really difficult to find an appropriate place suiting all your needs.

The reason why I say this is because you’ll be traveling to multiple locations within the California state. Having a confirmed reservation at each of these stopovers is essential, without having to worry about staying somewhere far.

If you’re a couple taking this 10 day California road trip – then expect to spend $65 – $150 per night for a decent property. This price bracket is best suited for budget travelers, but obviously, you can spend more if you wish to.

Our partnership with Tripadvisor helps you to select the right hotel at the right price. When you search for a particular hotel on Tripadvisor, you can filter down the category/price/amenities and of course location. You’ll even get to see a comparison of rates offered by different online operators such as Booking.com, Hotel.com, etc.

It’s best to check rates from all these sites, compare and then book (whichever you find cheaper). Tripadvisor usually has the best deals ongoing, with a great last-minute cancellation process. Do check out their listings for California and Yosemite if you want to get started right away.

How to Get Around California

I would probably call this section the most important one, as you need to fix your transport to get around the state. Now, since this is a road trip, you’ll obviously need to rent a car. Visitors usually prefer Rentalcars when it comes to road trips in the US. They have the widest of options available, with competitive prices and promotional offers.

The other option is to book an RV or a campervan. Booking either of these will sort your accommodation by itself. Rv’s or campervans allow you to stay in campgrounds or designated areas for a night. It’s widely popular when it comes to taking road trips, especially in California.

If this sounds like a fun option to you, then I recommend checking out RVshare. They have a wide collection of RVs available from major suppliers in the US, helping you to select the right one for your road trip.

If you want to know more about driving in the US, then check out this amazing article – tips for driving in the USA.

Get a California Guuidebook

If you still need some clarity on planning a perfect California road trip itinerary, then I recommend getting a copy of Lonely Planet’s California Guidebook.

I always urge my readers to purchase a Lonely Planet guide for any destination, as it helps you to discover new places & attractions. It’s also really beneficial to have a physical copy while on tour.

What to Pack for This 10 Day California Road Trip

Before you plan out your California packing list, you’ll need to consider important things, including the weather, what kind of activities you might be doing, and for how long you’ll stay in the state. Keeping these little things in mind will help you understand the number of clothes you may want to pack.

For your 10 days in California, I advise you to carry the following items –

Essential Items –

T-shirts/ Shirts (Preferably long-sleeves)
Long pants/ Jeans
Sleepwear/ Innerwear (as per your need)
Footwear
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Fleece top/sweater
Outlet adapter
First-aid kit (bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, and Aspirin)
Reusable water bottle
Few energy bars/drinks
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket

Essential Items (warm weather) –

Cotton T-shirts/ Shirts
Shorts/ skirts
Sunscreen/ Lotion
Swimwear/ Sunglasses

Recommended: For a more detailed version, check out this – ‘The Complete California Packing List‘.

Explore Classic Guides & Itineraries

Liked our epic California road trip? Then, you might be interested in reading our other popular guides –

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Canada – Canadian Rockies Mountain: 8 Day Itinerary to the Mountains

Sedona – Phoenix to Sedona: Top Things to Do + Sedona Itinerary

Yellowstone – Yellowstone Itinerary: How to Spend an Ideal Time in Yellowstone

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