Are you planning a road trip through the United States? With so many amazing destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect itinerary. To help you, we have put together this ultimate American road trip travel guide. It features some of the must-see stops across the country and a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. So pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime.
What’s included in this American Road Trip Travel Guide?
- Before Starting
- Itinerary and Things to Do during American Road Trip
- Day 1-2: Austin, Texas
- Day 3-4: New Orleans, Louisiana
- Day 5-6: Nashville, Tennesse
- Day 7-8: New York City, New York
- Day 9-10: Chicago, Illinois
- Day 11-12: Route 66
- Day 13-14: San Francisco, California
- Day 15-16: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Day 17-18: Denver, Colorado
- Day 19-20: Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Day 21-22: Las Vegas, Nevada
Before Starting
Before starting your American road trip journey, it is important to prepare everything properly. So, these are ten things you should make sure to check before you go. You can also use this guide to arrange your American road trip with a group.
Plan Your Route
To make the most of your American road trip, planning your route ahead of time is essential. Decide on your destinations and plan your route accordingly. Consider the distance between each stop, the time of year, and any potential road closures or construction.
Pack Essentials
Before hitting the road, bring all the essentials, such as clothing, toiletries, and medication. Pack a first aid kit, a map, and a GPS or a good offline map in case of poor signal. Do not forget to pack a tool kit if you need to fix your vehicle on the road.
Check Your Vehicle
To ensure a smooth and safe American road trip, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before you set off. Get a tune-up and oil change if necessary, and make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. Bring a spare tire and jack and a phone charger for your car.
Make Reservations
it is a good idea to make reservations for hotels or camping in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This will ensure you have a place to stay when you reach your destination.
Prepare for Emergencies
It is always best to be prepared for the unexpected. So, pack a basic emergency kit that includes a flashlight, a whistle, a multi-tool, a blanket, and a small amount of cash for emergencies. Make sure you have enough insurance coverage for your American road trip.
Research the Places to Visit
To make the most of your American road trip, it is important to research the places you will be visiting. Look into the sights, activities, and events happening in the places you visit. This will help you plan your time and make the most of your trip.
Be Aware of the Weather
To ensure you pack everything you need, be aware of the weather and climate of the places you visit. Make sure to bring enough sunscreen and warm clothing. This will be useful when you plan on visiting the mountain or desert regions on your American road trip.
Be Prepared for Unexpected Events
Road trips can be unpredictable, so be prepared for unexpected events such as flat tires, traffic delays, or inclement weather. Bring a sense of adventure and flexibility, and do not let unexpected events ruin your American road trip.
Stay Organized
Keep all important documents, such as IDs, insurance, and registration for your vehicle, in a safe place. Do not forget to make copies of them in case of loss or emergency. This will save you a lot of stress and hassle in case of unexpected events.
Have Fun
Remember, an American road trip is an adventure, so do not stress too much about the planning and execution. Enjoy the journey, the sights, and the company of your travel partners. Have fun and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Itinerary and Things to Do during American Road Trip
Now, we have come to the best part of this American road trip travel guide. Learn and follow the itinerary below. And explore many things to do during your adventure road-tripping in the United States of America.
Day 1-2: Austin, Texas
This Texan city is known for its live music scene and delicious BBQ. Visit the Texas State Capitol, the largest capitol building in the United States. You can take a tour to learn about the history and politics of Texas. Moreover, you can also take a boat ride on Town Lake or Lady Bird Lake for a different perspective of the city and to enjoy the beautiful views of downtown Austin. That is why Austin is the perfect place to start your American road trip.
Furthermore, Austin is also famous for its outdoor activities and recreational opportunities, like hiking and biking on the many trails in the area, such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt. The city also has a rich cultural scene. It is even home to many museums and art galleries like the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum. When you are here, take a stroll down South Congress Avenue. You can find some shopping, live music, and many food trucks to taste the local cuisine.
Day 3-4: New Orleans, Louisiana
This vibrant city is known for its rich history, delicious food, and live music scene. You can also stroll through the French Quarter and enjoy authentic Creole cuisine like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. During your American road trip to New Orleans, you can also visit famous landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Catholic Cathedral in the United States, and the French Market, the oldest public market in America.
Do not miss out on a live jazz performance at one of the many venues in the city, like Preservation Hall, Snug Harbor, or The Spotted Cat Music Club. This will make your American road trip feels even better. If you are interested in the city’s history, take a tour of famous plantations like Oak Alley or Laura. You can learn about the history of slavery and the antebellum South. Otherwise, you can also take a swamp tour to explore the wetlands and bayous surrounding the city and see the local wildlife.
Day 5-6: Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is popular as the “Music City” and is home to many famous music venues and museums. So, go on a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry, the show that made country music famous, or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history of country music. Do not miss out on trying out some local cuisine, like Nashville’s famous hot chicken, and take a tour of the historic RCA Studio B, where many famous country music recordings were made.
For a better experience, explore the historic neighborhoods of East Nashville and 12 South for a glimpse into the local culture. These neighborhoods are famous for their vibrant music scenes and unique local businesses. In this place, you can take a stroll along Broadway. It is a famous street lined with live music venues, bars, and honky-tonks. With such kind of cool experience, that is why we recommend you include Nashville, Tennessee, on your American road trip.
Day 7-8: New York City, New York
The Big Apple is a must-see stop on any American road trip. Take in the sights and sounds of Times Square, the hub of the Broadway theater district, where you can find colorful billboards. Moreover, spend some time visiting the Statue of Liberty, one of the world’s most iconic symbols of freedom. You can even take a ferry to Liberty Island to see it up close. In Manhattan, go to Central Park, a haven of nature in the middle of the city, and explore the many gardens, lakes, and landmarks.
New York is very vibrant, where you can explore many neighborhoods, from the trendy Lower East Side, known for its nightlife, to the historic Greenwich Village, known for its bohemian vibe, and the famous Washington Square Park. Besides, make sure to visit some famous museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the largest art museum in the country, and the American Museum of Natural History, one of the most famous natural history museums in the world.
Day 9-10: Chicago, Illinois
The next destination for your American road trip is the Windy City of Chicago. One of the best things to do in Chicago is to stroll through Millennium Park and admire the famous “Cloud Gate” sculpture, popularly known as “The Bean.” Do not forget to visit Willis Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city from the observation deck and enjoy some of the city’s famous deep-dish pizza. There are also a lot of hidden gems in Chicago that await you to explore and discover.
Chicago offers you a lot of things. For example, explore the famous Navy Pier, which features gardens, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. You can also ride on the 150-foot Ferris wheel for a panoramic view of the city and Lake Michigan. Moreover, while in Chicago, take a leisurely walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can take in the city’s architecture and have a meal at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 11-12: Route 66
Next, make your way onto the famous American road trip, Route 66, which starts from Chicago to Santa Monica. Along the way, you will pass through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. The route is known for its small towns and unique landmarks. Take a detour to see the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, and explore the Route 66 museum in Clinton, Oklahoma, to learn about the history of Route 66.
Then, stop at iconic landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where you can see a collection of vintage Cadillac cars buried nose-first in the ground. The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona, is another must-see stop, where you can spend the night in one of their tepee-shaped rooms. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Route 66 signs and markers, as well as vintage motels, gas stations, and diners that dot the route.
Day 13-14: San Francisco, California
This hilly city of San Francisco is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Take a cable car ride through the city for a unique perspective and to enjoy the beautiful views of the city. A ferry ride to Alcatraz Island will allow you to learn about the island’s history as a prison and enjoy the city’s panoramic views. Spend some time visiting the famous Haight-Ashbury neighborhood and walk through Golden Gate Park.
Moreover, the park is also home to many attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the California Academy of Sciences. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Last but not least, this American road trip travel guide would not be complete if you do not stroll along the famous Lombard street, known as the “crookedest street in the world,” and enjoy the beautiful views of the Bay.
Day 15-16: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
This national park is home to some of the country’s most diverse and unique landscapes. From geysers to bison to hot springs, there is something for every nature lover to enjoy. You can take a guided tour to see Old Faithful and other geysers or hike to one of the many stunning viewpoints. Moreover, a visit to Yellowstone National Park is not complete without exploring its famous geysers and hot springs, including the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States.
Besides, the park also offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, boating, and horseback riding. There are diverse wildlife here, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. So, bring your binoculars and keep your eyes open for a chance to spot them in their natural habitat. At night, you can also take a stargazing tour or a night-time wildlife safari to experience the park differently and stay overnight for a cool American road trip experience.
Day 17-18: Denver, Colorado
Denver is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike in the Rocky Mountains and explore the beautiful trails and scenic views. For a different experience, you can visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, a public botanical garden that features many plants, including many species of native and exotic plants. You can also look at Denver from a different perspective by taking a stroll down the 16th street mall for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Additionally, Denver is also famous for its bike-friendly streets and bike-sharing programs. So, take a bike tour to explore the city. There are also a lot of museums to explore, such as the Denver Art Museum and the Coors Brewery. If you are a foodie, the city also has a vibrant food scene, from farm-to-table restaurants to craft breweries, and is famous for its green chili dishes. Try it out and get one of the best food experiences during your American road trip.
Day 19-20: Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world and is a must-see destination on any American road trip. Take a hike down to the bottom of the canyon for an unforgettable experience. You can also take a scenic drive along the rim for breathtaking views. If you have more budget for your trip, you can rent a helicopter or mule ride for a different perspective and a chance to see the canyon from above.
In addition, the South Rim is the most visited area and offers the most developed facilities and services. The place is less crowded but also less accessible and only open seasonally. While at the Grand Canyon, take the opportunity to explore the park’s many hiking trails, scenic drives, and lookout points to take in the area’s natural beauty. The best thing is that the park also offers ranger-led tours, talks, and walks to learn about the canyon’s geology, history, and wildlife.
Day 21-22: Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas in Nevada is the last city you must visit for your American road trip. This city is famous for its bright lights and casinos. Take a stroll down the Las Vegas Strip, visiting famous hotels and casinos like the Bellagio, the Mirage, and the Caesar’s Palace. Moreover, you can also have fun catching a performance by one of the many famous headliners like Celine Dion, Elton John, and Cher. So, your American road trip will not be boring.
For a different experience, you can also take a day trip to the nearby Hoover Dam. It is one of the most impressive engineering feats of the 20th century. Besides, take a trip to the Red Rock Canyon, a geological wonder, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and many hiking trails there. If you are more into a more relaxing activity, Las Vegas also has many spas and pools to relax and unwind. There are also a lot of nightlife scenes, such as clubs and lounges, where you can dance the night away.
No matter where you decide to go on your American road trip, you will surely have an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a good time, the United States has something for everyone. Plan your itinerary, pack your bags, fill the tank, and hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime. JoinMyTrip has a lot of road trip adventures guided by our dedicated TripLeaders for you to choose from. So, check them out and book your favorites with us now!