A road trip from New York to California takes you the entire width of the United States, from sea to shining sea.
A 2,900 mile road trip from New York to San Francisco, California, takes you through 12 states, across every type of landscape the United States has to offer. A mammoth journey only for the most dedicated, it’s truly the ultimate American experience.
For those thinking of making this incredible expedition themselves, I highly recommend reading on, to find out the best way to go about doing so.
A Road Trip From New York To California: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take To Get There & What Is The Best Route?
A road trip from New York to California is an incredibly long journey, but it is also an incredibly straightforward one.
A road trip from New York to San Francisco may cover just over 2,900 miles and take at least 43 hours to complete, but most of that will be spent on one road.
Begin by heading west on I-95 and taking it across the George Washington Bridge into New Jersey. At Exit 69, you will join I-80 where it begins, in Teaneck, New Jersey.
You will then remain on it for its entire 2,899.59 mile duration, until you reach your destination in San Francisco, California.
Top Attractions On A Road Trip From New York To California
Narrowing down the top attractions on a road trip from New York to California is an incredibly tall task, as the journey literally covers the entire width of the United States. With thousands of options to choose from, selecting the cream of the crop is a difficult proposition.
However, it is important you find the perfect balance of attractions, as too few stops will make the journey boring, while too many will make it drag.
The following is what we believe to be the 21 top attractions on a road trip from New York to San Francisco, to help you balance your trip just right.
Garret Mountain Reservation
The Garret Mountain Reservation is a stunning 568 acre park and garden centred around the 19th century Lambert Castle, which contains a museum dedicated to art, furniture, and textiles.
With numerous hiking trails providing stunning views of the city from the reservation’s hilltop location and numerous species of birds flying around, this is an ideal stop for fans of nature and history alike.
Waterloo Village
Waterloo Village is a historical village that has been listed on the United States National Register Of Historic Places since 1977. The 19th century town has been completely restored, to give visitors the chance to see how people in this region would have historically lived.
With iconic buildings, canal exhibits, event spaces, and museums, it is a perfect place to embrace the history of the eastern United States.
Lakota Wolf Preserve
A beautiful wildlife refuge near Worthington State Forest, in northwest New Jersey, the Lakota Wolf Preserve is home to four separate packs of wolves.
Guided tours give you the opportunity to watch them play and interact with each other, while finding out more about the species. The preserve is even home to a number of other species for you to stay on the lookout for, such as bobcats and foxes.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Covering 51 square miles (132 square kilometres), Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the 9th smallest and 8th newest and national park in the United States, located on the banks of the Cuyahoga River.
Its landscapes boast striking hills, forests, waterfalls, and farmland, which are abundant with bats, birds, beavers, foxes, coyotes, deer, minks, moles, muskrats, opossums, otters, racoons, skunks, and more, making it a fabulous destination for nature lovers.
Lake Erie
The second smallest of the Great Lakes by surface area, Lake Erie is still a massive body of water, which covers 9,910 square miles (25,700 square kilometres). It is also the smallest of the group by water volume too, as it contains 116 cubic miles (480 cubic kilometres) of water.
With a vibrant collection of wildlife that includes birds and aquatic animals, while also featuring breathtaking landscapes and vistas, nature lovers are guaranteed to fall in love at first sight.
Toledo, Ohio
The 4th largest city in Ohio, Toledo is famed for its connection to jazz music, having produced some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
With bars, galleries, and museums dedicated to jazz, you can learn about the history of the genre and see some of its newest acts perform live, making it a dream destination for jazz fans.
Indiana Dunes National Park
The 5th smallest and 2nd newest national park in the US, Indiana Dunes National Park is named after the 25 miles of sand dunes that stretch along the south-eastern shore of Lake Michigan from which it takes its name.
With its stunning landscapes, a collection of rare and unusual plants, and a selection of iconic wildlife that includes species like Indiana bats, bald eagles, eastern massasauga rattlesnakes, rufa red knots, and piping plovers, it is a can’t miss destination for nature lovers seeking something a little different.
Lake Michigan
Covering 22,300 square miles (58,000 square metres) and containing 1,180 cubic miles (4,900 cubic metres) of water, Lake Michigan has the 3rd largest surface area and 2nd largest water volume of North America’s Great Lakes.
The only one of the group found entirely in the U.S and the largest lake on Earth set in one country, Lake Michigan has a collection of beaches, vistas, wildlife, and watery attractions unmatched by almost anything else you are likely to find.
Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines is the capital and most populous city in the state of Iowa. Home to the only five-dome State Capitol building in the United States, it is a perfect destination for fans of architecture and history.
With other attractions like the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, Kruidenier Trail Bridge, and Grays Lake, Des Moines is a wonderful, yet often overlooked, city in America’s heartlands.
John Wayne Birthplace Museum
Located in Winterset, just south of Des Moines, the John Wayne Birthplace Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the legendary movie star, in the house where he was born in 1907.
Restored to its traditional aesthetic, it is filled with exhibits, artefacts, and a movie screen playing “The Duke’s” movies, while a statue of the man himself stands out front. It is an absolutely must visit destination for any fans of one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Jesse James Historical Site
The Jesse James Historical Site is the location of the first train robbery in the American west, which was completed by the legendary bandit Jesse James and his gang.
Commemorated by a memorial featuring a plaque, steam train wheel, and a stretch of track, it is a quick stop that will truly help you immerse yourself in the history and legacy of your surroundings.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln is the capital and 2nd most populous city in the state of Nebraska. Despite having a population of less than 300,000, it still ranks as the 14th most populous state capital in the country.
Founded in 1869, its stunning State Capitol building is one of the most unique in the U.S. With attractions like zoos, art museums, events centres, and various historical, natural, and cultural attractions, Lincoln is a fabulous city that is often overlooked simply due to its location.
Fort Kearney State Historical Park
Fort Kearney was established in 1848 to protect the growing number of pioneers on the Oregon Trail from attacks by bandits and Native American tribes.
The Fort Kearney State Historical Park features recreations of the fort and its buildings, complete with exhibits and artefacts detailing its history. A small, affordable attraction, it is perfect for anyone interested in the history of the Oregon Trail or America’s westward expansion.
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park Museum
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park Museum is centred around the ranch of legendary wild west frontiersman “Buffalo” Bill Cody.
With self-guided tours around the ranch’s mansion, barn, and various other locations, as well as getting to explore a collection of memorabilia, it is a great stop for those interested in one of the wild west’s most prominent people.
Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests
The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests are a pair of national forests that between them cover over 2.2 million acres.
With numerous forests, lakes, mountains, and wilderness areas, all abundant with a rich range of wildlife, the area is an incredibly popular destination for activities like boating, camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, and more.
Humboldt State Wildlife Management Area
Humboldt State Wildlife Management Area sits at the west end of the Humboldt River and features a range of lakes and salt marshes.
Located on a major migratory route, birds like American avocets, American coots, Canada geese, ducks, hawks, mallards, and owls are common sights.
You then have various other wildlife appearing throughout the year, as well as activities like fishing, camping, hiking, bird watching and hunting, making it a fabulous destination for outdoor recreation.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe straddles the Nevada – California border and is the largest alpine lake in the U.S., as well as the largest in the country overall outside of The Great Lakes.
Known for its panoramic vistas and crystal clear water, it is perfect for sunbathing, water sports, swimming, and photography. Being a Spring Break hotspot and boasting numerous ski resorts and casinos makes it a popular destination to visit, no matter the time of year.
Donner Memorial State Park
Donner Memorial State Park is a National Historic Landmark and the location of the Donner Camp, the site where pioneers were trapped by snow and ice in the winter of 1846/1847 and had to fight to survive.
Throughout the park you will find the Emigrant Trail Museum, Pioneer Monument, and various exhibits and artefacts dedicated to the party, First Transcontinental Railroad builders, and local Native Americans, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
Sacramento, California
Sacramento is the Capital and 6th most populous city in California, as well as its centre of finance and government, and one of its fastest growing. It is best known as the site of the historic Old Sacramento district from the early 19th century.
Cobbled streets, old buildings, horse-drawn carriage rides, and steam train tours let you experience the California of old, while museums and art galleries help you learn more about the culture and history of both the city and state.
Sacramento even has a huge Chinatown, one of the largest LGBT communities in the country, and a wide range of bars, film and music venues, hotels, restaurants and shops, making it a fun filled stop for everyone.
Vallejo, California
Located on San Pablo Bay’s northeast shore, Vallejo is a perfect place to experience small town California, while still enjoying many of the attractions you would find in the bigger cities.
The Six Flags Discovery Kingdom amusement park will keep all visitors entertained, while the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, a California Historical Landmark, is ideal for fans of America’s naval history.
Throw in an LGBT community that is among the oldest in America, numerous links to the Zodiac Killer, and all the traditional small town features you would expect, and Vallejo is a wonderful place to make a pit stop on your journey.
Oakland, California
Oakland is the 8th most populous city in the state of California. Located on the east coast of the San Francisco Bay, it is a city filled with art galleries, cultural institutions, museums, and music venues.
One of the fastest growing cities in the United States, it is a perfect location to experience many of the things San Francisco is known for, for a much more affordable price.
Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From New York To California
With a road trip from New York to San Francisco taking a minimum of 43 hours to complete, even the most hardcore road trippers are going to need to break this one up with a few overnight stops.
While there are plenty of fabulous options along the 2,900 mile route, the following are the absolute best places to stop on a road trip from New York to California, as they offer the best combination of relaxation and attractions.
Cleveland, Ohio
The 2nd most populous city in the state of Ohio and 15th largest in the U.S overall, Cleveland sits on the shores of Lake Erie and boasts some of the most breathtaking views of any urban destination in the country.
While not currently among the most popular tourist destination in America, attractions like the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, a beautiful botanical garden, and numerous galleries, museums, music venues, sports teams, and other attractions make it a fun filled destination for all to visit.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Cleveland - Aloft Cleveland Downtown
A stylish hotel overlooking Lake Erie, guests at the Aloft Cleveland Downtown will be greeted by stunning views of the lake.
Each of the rooms boasts a wonderful array of amenities, such as a flat screen cable TV, comfortable furniture, designer bedding, and Bliss bath products.
In the communal areas, facilities like a 24 hour front desk, restaurant, bar, dry cleaning service and fitness and business centres will take care of all your needs.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout this pet friendly hotel, and there are a number of facilities offered to make it ideal for disabled guests.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is the 3rd most populous city in the United States, located on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Settled in 1780, it is a metropolis that boasts some of the most incredible history and stunning natural views you will find in any American city.
From the unique delicacies like pizza pie to iconic locations and even the city’s infamous association with the mob in the 1920’s, Chicago is easily one of the most vibrant cities in the country and one that simply can’t be missed while you are passing through.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Chicago - Staypineapple, An Iconic Hotel, The Loop
Set in a historic building, designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Burnham, Staypineapple, An Iconic Hotel, The Loop is a fabulous, 4 star hotel.
Surrounded by many of Chicago’s top attractions and featuring décor that includes marble ceilings and mosaic floors, it is the height of class and style.
Each of the rooms is pet friendly and boasts luxuries like antique mahogany furniture, a flat screen TV, and air conditioning. Add in communal facilities like a bike rental service and fitness centre, as well as beautiful views of the city, and it is a truly wonderful, memorable destination.
Omaha, Nebraska
The largest city in Nebraska and second largest in the Great Plains, Omaha sits on the banks of the Missouri River. Founded in 1854, the city is known for its history and features over a dozen historic districts.
With a more than 100 buildings listed as a National Historic Landmark or on the National Register Of Historic Places, as well as numerous historic institutions, like museums and galleries, Omaha is an ideal destination to spend a few days for anyone wanting to learn more about this region of the U.S.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Omaha – Omaha Marriott Downtown At The Capital District
The Omaha Marriott Downtown is a fabulous, 4 star hotel, located right in the heart of Omaha.
Each of its rooms features air conditioning, a desk, TV, safety deposit box, and Wi-Fi, which is present throughout the property. The rate also includes an American buffet breakfast each morning.
Facilities like business and fitness centres, a bar, restaurant, outdoor pool, 24 hour front desk, ATM, vending machines, luggage storage, concierge and airport shuttle services, and room service will make sure you have everything you need throughout your stay.
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Cheyenne is the capital and most populous city in Wyoming and is named after the local Cheyenne people. Founded in 1867, it is a historic destination that boasts over 50 sites listed on the National Register Of Historic Places.
Attractions like the Wyoming State Capitol, Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Cheyenne Frontier Days Wild West Museum, and Cheyenne Depot Museum make Cheyenne ideal for learning about the history of the wild west, Pacific Railroad, and midwestern United States.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Cheyenne - Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne
The Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne is a wonderful, 4 star hotel, situated only 3 miles from the heart of Cheyenne. The rooms are all spacious and family friendly, and are filled with amenities including a TV, fridge, en suite bathroom, and tea and coffee making facilities.
With luxuries like a bar, fitness centre, golf course, pool, restaurant, and a range of shops, as well as Wi-Fi throughout and free parking, this is the perfect place from which to explore this historic city.
Salt Lake City, Utah
The capital and most populous city in Utah, as well as the 22nd most populous in the U.S, Salt Lake City sits on Great Salt Lake’s southeast shore.
Settled around 1840 by Mormon pioneers, it is well known for its links to The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints, a unique branch of Christianity.
Home to a huge range of city parks, lakes, and mountains, it is a hotbed of outdoor recreation. This is particularly true of winter sports, such as skiing, and the city even hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic Games.
Add in features like an abundance of art galleries, bars, concerts, events, exhibitions, festivals, plays, hotels, museums, restaurants, rodeos, shops, theatres, and the largest LGBT community in the state, and Salt Lake City become one of the most diverse and iconic cities you will find.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Salt Lake City - Grand America Hotel
The Grand America Hotel is a stunning, 5-star hotel in Downtown Salt Lake City. Its architecture, interior décor, and features like a beautiful fountain help it to set the standard as the height of style and sophistication in the city.
Each of the rooms boasts marble bathrooms, private balconies, and stunning views.
They also have luxuries like iPod docking stations, luxury bathrobes, slippers, and Wi-Fi that extends to the rest of the property, which includes business and fitness centres, swimming pools, and a full-service spa.
A restaurant serving gourmet American cuisine, as well as a communal lounge and bar serving a range of drinks takes care of your culinary needs and all offer 24 hour room service. There is even a tour desk to help you plan your adventures outside of the hotel during your stay.
Reno, Nevada
The largest, most populous city in the state of Nevada not in the Las Vegas Metro, Reno is known as “The Biggest Little City In The World”. It is a perfect destination for people seeking the Las Vegas experience, in a slightly less crowded environment.
With a range of casinos and gambling establishments, as well as the greatest collection of bars, hotels, shops, and restaurants you will find for miles, it makes a great place to stop and let off some steam, before you push on to your final destination.
Those less interested in the city life will find natural features like Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains surrounding Reno. This means, no matter what you are looking for, Reno is a city that will entertain you while you recharge your batteries.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Reno – Atlantis Casino Resort Spa
The Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is a fabulous, 5 star hotel, with its own casino and spa. Throw in amenities like a kid’s centre, indoor and outdoor pools, VIP and concierge services, and stunning views, and it is the perfect place to enjoy everything Reno is known for.
It even boasts 8 restaurants serving everything from gourmet meals to buffets and breakfasts. They all provide 24 hour room service, so you can enjoy your food and drink in your stylish room, which has amenities like a flat screen cable TV and tea and coffee making facilities.
Located just 5 miles from Reno – Tahoe International Airport, a free shuttle is also provided to get you to and from the property.
Best Time For A Road Trip From New York To California
The best time for a road trip from New York to California is from the start of June to mid-August. This should ensure that you have the best possible weather conditions, both along your route and at your destination.
It also means you will avoid California wildfire season, which can wreak havoc on the end of our journey from late August to early November. Visiting during our suggested period means you will be pleasantly at warm, without risking experiencing a natural disaster.
Conclusion
A road trip from New York to California is truly a mammoth task but one that has the potential to perhaps be the greatest trip you ever take if you plan it correctly.
From stunning landscapes and historic cities to beautiful towns and roadside attractions, this is a journey that truly has it all.
You should now have all the information you need to plan the perfect road trip from New York to San Francisco, complete with all the best things to see and stops to make along the way.
All you have left to do is start planning where to stay and what to do when you arrive, as well as maybe how to save a few bucks along the way. That way, you can look forward to experiencing this incredible journey for yourself, as soon as possible.