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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit on the West Coast — From Charming Small Towns to National Parks

From Washington to California, these are the best places to visit on the West Coast.

Chelsee Lowe is a Los Angeles-based writer with an obsession with good eats and interesting stories. She regularly contributes to Travel + Leisure , TravelAge West , Ventura Blvd , and L.A. Parent , writing about food, family travel, and more.

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As a California native, I say the following with obvious and admitted bias: the West Coast is the best coast. Urban oases like Los Angeles , San Francisco , and Seattle attract visitors from around the world for good reason.  However, if anyone asks me for itinerary assistance, I push for balancing city sojourns with slow escapes to the West Coast's most beautiful spots – none of which are smack dab in the middle of a city, in my opinion. Here are 15 of the best places to visit on the West Coast, arranged from south to north, that really show off the treasures of the region’s contiguous states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

Big Sur, California

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The undulating 90-mile length of California’s Central Coast known as Big Sur is the stuff of travel lore. Much of the road is right at the edge of a cliff, so if you don’t have incomparable sea views, it’s likely only because you’ve been enveloped in fog. While I love a misty morning, sunny days here are spectacular. Enjoy iconic McWay Falls from above via Overlook Trail , explore Andrew Molera State Park , and trek along Pfeiffer Falls Trail . A stop at Big Sur Bakery is another itinerary must. Be sure to check that the road is open before you visit, as the road’s precarious placement means it's regularly impacted by winter rains and mudslides.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

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This coastal village measures less than one square mile and is the ideal destination for easy strolls. You will walk past fairy-tale cottages (note that people actually live in them), charming cafes and galleries, and even the soft-sanded Carmel Beach. Then hop on the famous 17-mile Drive , keeping on the lookout for endemic Monterey cypress trees as you circle the Monterey Peninsula.

Muir Woods, California

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Muir Woods National Monument is small at 558 acres, but its resident trees are not small at all. You will find towering ancient redwoods here, many nearly a millennium old and standing taller than 250 feet. Spend a couple of hours exploring below these mighty giants and reading placards to learn about the history of the land. The monument is less than 20 miles from San Francisco and is the most easily accessible redwood grove in the state. Parking reservations are always required, as spots are extremely limited.

Point Reyes, California

Point Reyes National Seashore is situated on a hammer-shaped peninsula about 60 miles north of San Francisco. Set aside a few hours for a misty out-and-back hike on Tomales Point Trail , where wildflowers and tule elk can be spotted, or try the short-but-stunning Chimney Rock Trail . Then grab oysters along Tomales Bay at an oyster shack of your choice.

Russian River Valley, California

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The Russian River Valley is lush and green and even delicious, thanks to wineries, beloved cafes, and marketplaces. Walk the town of Guerneville, stopping for a meal at Big Bottom Market (Oprah’s favorite biscuits are made here), then trek around in Armstong Redwoods State Natural Reserve . Plan to float the Russian River (Steelhead Beach is a preferred starting point), and save time for wine tasting at nearby spots like Hartford Family Wines and Equality Vines .

Mendocino, California

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There’s something particularly majestic about a teeny town on a bluff overlooking the sea, and Mendocino is just that. Grab coffee and pastries in this quaint and preserved historic town, then enjoy nature on as many trails as you can. Top paths are in Mendocino Headlands State Park for bird’s-eye ocean views, Hendy Woods State Park for redwood viewing, and Russian Gulch State Park for a beach walk.

Redwood National and State Parks, California

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This collection of parks protects the ultra-special redwood tree – they only grow in coastal California and southern Oregon, and they’re jaw-dropping in size (nothing on the planet grows taller) and beauty. There are miles of trails here to trek, but you might want to start with Tall Trees Grove Loop or Trillium Falls Trail . To simply hang out with and marvel at redwoods, head to Lady Bird Johnson Grove .

Thor’s Well, Oregon

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Thor’s Well is a sight to see. It looks like a hole in the ocean, where rushing waters sink to unseen depths; scientists say it's likely the remnant of a collapsed sea cave. Visit at high tide to get the full effect of this “drainpipe of the Pacific.” The area is also good for gray whale spotting in December and January when they travel south for the winter.

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Who knew Oregon had so many waterfalls ? If you’d like to enjoy these natural treasures, try the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park . The 7.2-mile loop trail brings hikers through dense forest and – you guessed it – past ten waterfalls, and it’s pretty moderate in elevation gain (800 feet). Do the whole trip if you’re able so you can appreciate both the stretches on the forest floor and up the canyon. Start early to avoid crowds.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

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There are more than 700 wineries in Willamette Valley, Oregon’s expansive wine country. Build your own wine-tasting itinerary , and save time to go waterfall hiking (as mentioned above, you will find so many falls in this region). Then shop and dine in towns like Cottage Grove , Brownsville, Silverton, or McMinnville.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

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This is Oregon’s most famous beach, and for good reason – the high basalt rocks just offshore pierce the landscape dramatically (puffins are pretty active here from April to July), and the cute coastal town of the same name sits just behind the sand. While small, it has everything you need, from breweries and ice cream shops to oceanside lodging options. Small nearby towns like Manzanita and Seaside charm visitors, too.

Multnomah Falls, Oregon

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This dreamy, double-tiered waterfall is set in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area , which attracts more than two million people every year. Park near the base and enjoy the view from below (there’s a pretty footbridge at the falls’ midpoint), or hike to the top of the falls via a 2.6-mile out-and-back trail. Note that timed-use permits will be required beginning in May.

White Salmon, Washington

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Also in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, White Salmon, Washington is a perfect riverside town with all the ambiance and activity you could ask for. Expect supreme kite and windsurfing, mountain biking, hiking, and even a brand-new Wildflower Festival in May. You can also explore the area on a whitewater kayaking excursion.

Hurricane Ridge Trail, Olympic National Park, Washington

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Olympic National Park is nearly one million acres in size, and Hurricane Ridge Trail is considered one of the best routes in it, as the path delivers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. The trail and its surroundings are set to reopen Memorial Day weekend after a big rehabilitation effort. Note that the trailhead is in the northeast corner of the park about 100 miles from Seattle, and it closes during snowy winter months.

Friday Harbor, Washington

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Washington’s San Juan Islands are breathtaking year round, and though the archipelago includes hundreds of islands, a ferry system allows for easy access to just a handful of them, including San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. Friday Harbor is considered the hub of the region, and it's a great place from which to explore. Visit for orca watching, hiking in preserves like Lime Kiln Point State Park , and even farm and winery tours.

Related Articles

19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Stretching from the glaciers of Alaska to the deserts of southern California, there’s no doubt that the west coast of the United States is home to some of the most stunning (and diverse) nature on the planet. Add in iconic cities, quirky small towns, a great food scene, plenty of historic highlights, and several wine regions, and the possibilities for putting together a west coast USA road trip itinerary are nearly endless.

We teamed up with several travel writers to share their favorite west coast road trip routes, and the results are worthy of any bucket list.

Here are the best US west coast road trip ideas!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

Best west coast usa road trips in california, oregon + washington road trip itinerary ideas, west coast usa road trip ideas in alaska.

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Before we dive into exploring the best west coast road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your west coast USA road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling. Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your US west coast road trip today!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico, be sure to check requirements for crossing the border as well.

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between. We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on our road trip packing list  before you go!

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for road trips in the USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the US west coast is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your west coast US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

The Iconic Pacific Coast Highway

From Allison of California Crossroads

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

San Diego to Los Angeles

From Chris of Explore Now or Never

Los Angeles to Yosemite

From Eden of Rock a Little Travel 

A Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip makes an excellent choice for those who love the big city, but also appreciate some quality time outdoors. 

During your time in Los Angeles, I recommend getting an early start to hike the city’s famous Runyon Canyon trail in Hollywood. After your hike, make your way towards Melrose Avenue to grab brunch and maybe do a little vintage shopping. Spend your afternoon in Santa Monica enjoying the beach before heading into downtown LA for dinner and drinks in the Arts District. 

From Los Angeles, you’ll head north to Paso Robles, one of California’s favorite wine regions. The wineries here are fun and affordable, and most are family-owned. Paso Robles is known for being down to earth and friendly, so even if you don’t know a lot about wine, you’re guaranteed to feel welcome and have a good time. 

After enjoying the wineries of Paso Robles, it’s time to head to Yosemite. Once inside the park make your way towards the Tunnel View lookout. This lookout offers some of the best views in the park with Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome off in the distance.

From Tunnel View, you’ll make your way down into Yosemite Valley. From here you can ditch the car and begin exploring this beautiful park on foot or bicycle. You’ll find trails and waterfalls all around you, so take your time and see it all. 

Three to five days is perfect for this Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip. This will give you at least one full day in each destination with the option to add on more time where you like. 

You’ll have lots of time in the car, so consider bringing some California books like Wild along!

Los Angeles to Eastern Sierra

The first place you can explore is off of the 14 freeway, the Red Rock Canyon State Park. In the summer, this area does get very hot, but if you’re doing this trip in the fall, spring, or winter months, it’s a great place to stop and soak in the desert views.

From there, head to Lone Pine, a cute town where several Western movies were filmed. From here, explore the Alamaba Hills. You can spend the day driving up and down dirt roads, viewing the rock formations, and gazing upon the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You can also disperse camp here.

From Alabama Hills you get a stellar view of Mt. Whitney , standing at 14,505 feet, it’s the highest point in the lower 48 states. Mt. Whitney is not an easy hike, but it’s a must-do for any avid hiker or backpacker. Permits are required for both day hikes and backpacking trips, and it’s a 22-mile round trip hike from Whitney Portal out of Lone Pine, so make sure to train if you want this hike to be part of your west coast road trip itinerary. 

Lone Pine is the start of the Eastern Sierra. From here, as you drive further North, you’ll encounter Independence, Big Pine, Bishop, and then Mammoth. There are so many hiking trails just outside of each of these towns with views that will make you not believe you’re in California.

You can make this trip as short or as long as you’d like. If you’re new to the area, give yourself a week to do several hikes, soak in hot springs and take in different elements of what this area has to offer.

California Gold Country

Highway 49 links many historical gold rush towns through the foothills of the Sierra Mountains in California. Start your journey in the adventure-filled town of Angels Camp, then drive north through Placerville, Coloma, Auburn, Grass Valley, and ending in Nevada City.

Each of these gold rush towns is full of interesting museums, quaint stores, great dining options, and adventures like panning for gold or watch a real blacksmith at work.

Placerville, also known as Hangtown, has the oldest hardware store west of the Mississippi. Half the store is filled with gold mining equipment (like gold mining pans) and hard to find hardware, the other half is packed with housewares and fabulous gifts. There is something for everyone.

If looking for a shorter trip, start in Auburn, the easiest of the towns to get to from Sacramento, then head up to the sister cities Grass Valley and Nevada City. There are old gold mines to explore, the best chocolate candy store (Grass Valley), shopping until you drop, and then top it all off with an ice cream cone from one of many locations.

Highway 49 winds through beautiful pine trees and at times it passes along the South Fork American River making this a peaceful road trip with unlimited potential. Each of these gold rush towns along this highway has something unique and “oldest” that they can claim.

Driving this route directly would only take about 2.5 hours, but with so much to see and do, it could easily take you four to five days to complete this west coast USA road trip route. Much of the drive is through small towns along windy roads with a continuous supply of mining and gold rush history and activities for all ages.

San Diego to Palm Springs Loop

California’s Lost Coast

From Julia of Well Planned Journey

California’s Lost Coast  is the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. For 75 miles, the famed Pacific Coast Highway cuts inland, unable to pass through the rough terrain. This road trip from Eureka to Mendocino is perfect for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path. 

Start your Lost Coast road trip in Eureka, California, an old town famous for its Victorian houses. Leave the Pacific Coast Highway behind as you head for the small town of Ferndale, where you can explore the Victorian homes and the Golden Gait Mercantile.

Mattole Road winds through rolling hills and backcountry before running parallel to the Pacific Ocean. Stop along Mattole Road to enjoy the solitude and coastal views. As Mattole Road turns back inland, you trade the rugged Lost Coast for a redwood forest.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the largest old-growth redwood forest in the world. End your first day in Humboldt Redwoods State Park exploring the Avenue of the Giants, a famous 31-mile scenic drive through the redwoods. Stay the night in one of Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s many campgrounds or if you prefer a hotel, stay at The Tides Inn in Shelter Cove. 

The next morning, make your way to Shelter Cove. Explore Black Sands Beach and grab lunch and a beer at Gyppo. After lunch, stop to explore Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, searching for sea glass, and watching for seals and whales. End your Lost Cost journey in Mendocino where you can hike the coast on the Mendocino Headlands trail or go on a kayaking tour with Kayak Mendocino.

Recommended Trip Length

While this route could be driven in a day, 2-3 days gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the Lost Coast and the Mendocino area. 

National Parks in Southern California

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Road trips are a wonderful way to experience California’s stunning natural wonders. And one of the very  best California road trips with a nature focus is a route that covers southern California’s great desert parks.

Start in Los Angeles and make your way to Palm Springs, a fun desert city with many resorts and spas to enjoy. Palm Springs is home to mid-century modern architecture and desert canyon hikes, as well as an aerial tramway that takes you to the top of Mount San Jacinto.

From Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is just about an hour’s drive. The park is known for its magnificent boulder masses and the strange-looking, unique Joshua trees that aren’t really trees but a type of succulent. Whether you enjoy hiking or early settler history replete with relics of ranches and mines, you will have fun exploring Joshua Tree National Park.

Next, drive through the Mojave National Preserve, with more stands of Joshua trees and mighty sand dunes, before arriving at Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley National Park is home to the lowest point in North America. It is cool to take a photo by the sign saying “282 feet below sea level” at Badwater Basin! Explore the massive salt flats and take in the views from iconic viewpoints such as Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View. Death Valley National Park is huge but easily explored if you have a car.

From Death Valley National Park, make your way back to Los Angeles, stopping, if you like at more desert places along the way, such as Alabama Hills.

This trip is best enjoyed over a time frame of 5-7 days. Each of the parks is large and deserves a day or two to see the major sights and get in a couple of hikes.

Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport

From Jeanine of Le Wild Explorer

One of the most incredible places in California is the Eastern Sierras. It’s full of natural beauty and a great place for outdoor adventures. A road trip from  Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport  will take you amazing hot springs with killer views, pristine lakes, scenic hiking trails, and more. 

You’ll begin your trip to Mammoth Lakes which is extremely busy in the winter and summer. The famous Mammoth Mountain is an all-season resort that is popular for snow sports in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. Mammoth Lakes also has incredible hot springs and loads of hiking trails.

From Mammoth Lakes, you’ll head north where you can drive the June Lake Loop. The Loop is made up of four different lakes where you can go fishing, kayak, swim (in the summer), and more. There are also hiking trails that lead you to postcard-worthy vistas. 

Continue your drive north to Lee Vining where you’ll find Mono Lake. The lake is one of the oldest in North America and a true gem. The tufa towers are made of mineral deposits and give it an out-of-this-world look. The best time to visit is for sunrise or sunset but you can enjoy day-time activities such as kayaking and birdwatching.

Last, you’ll reach Bridgeport where you can soak in more hot springs and even visit a ghost town. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular. And if you love fishing check out their annual fishing events and go fly fishing in one of the creeks. 

This Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport road trip can be done in a weekend but at least three days is recommended if you hope to enjoy a few hikes.

Portland to Seattle 

Recommended by Lotte from  Beste voor Kids  

Start your road trip in the delightfully weird city of Portland (Keep Portland Weird is actually the city’s slogan) and stock up on food, snacks, and gas. If you’ve never been to Portland, be sure to allow for a day in your itinerary to explore the city before hitting the road.  

From Portland, head north on the I-5 S and drive to the Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center (about an hour). Here you can learn more about the major eruption on March 27 in 1980. This eruption took the lives of 57 people and drastically changed the shape of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding ecosystem.   

Drive to Randle on the 12 and continue to Windy Ridge via the NF-99. Often cited as one of the most scenic drives in Washington State, be sure to take plenty of time to admire the views here. Note that the NF-99 closes around late October/early November (depending on the first serious snowfall). At the end of the road, you can hike up Windy Ridge for a beautiful view of Mount Saint Helens and Spirit Lake.  

Next up on your west coast road trip itinerary is Mount Rainier National Park. Drive here via the 123 and Steven’s Canyon Road (also closed in winter) and spend a day or two exploring this amazing National Park. Nice hiking trails are the Skyline Trail (8.4 miles round trip) and the short but beautiful Alta Vista trail (1.8 mile). Both start at the Paradise parking lot.   

End your trip in Seattle, the birthplace of Starbucks, home to famous Pike Place Market, and of course the 605-ft.-tall Space Needle.  

You could drive the 175 miles from Portland to Seattle in just under 3 hours via the I-5 S, however, for this road trip, I’d recommend 3 days if you don’t plan on exploring Portland or Seattle. If you want to visit these cities as well, add at least two extra days so you can spend an entire day in both of these great west coast cities.  

Willamette Valley

From Sarah & Nathan of Discover the PNW

Just south of the popular Oregon city of Portland sits the gorgeous Willamette Valley, known for the state’s wine production. A west coast USA road trip between Portland and Eugene will take you right through one of the most beautiful places in Oregon with plenty of opportunities to stop for great wine, food, and scenery.

There are nearly 600 wineries in the Willamette Valley and many of them are open year-round for tastings and tours. The region is known for producing premier Pinot-Noir but you will also find many other varietals to taste. 

Another plus to this road trip is the cute towns along the way offering fabulous dining and charming accommodations. McMinnville is a favorite with its historic center, boutique shops, foodie-focused restaurants, and dozens of tasting rooms. 

Oregon’s pretty capital city of Salem is also worth a visit with its gardens, cultural, arts, and food scene. Pay a visit to the Willamette Valley Cheese Company, enjoy a brunch cruise on the Willamette Queen Riverboat, or partake in a glass of wine at Oregon’s oldest producing winery.

The Willamette Valley is also a top choice of nature lovers. With miles of farmland, orchards, and vineyards plus views of the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains, the drive is nothing short of stunning. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure be sure to spend some time around Eugene which is surrounded by hiking and cycling trails, waterfalls, and rivers. 

120 miles one way or 240 miles as a loop.

It only takes about 5 hours to drive this west coast USA road trip loop but with so many places to stop along the way we recommend at least 1 night and 2 full days.

Portland to Bend

From Amanda of A Dangerous Business

Oregon is a great place for a road trip, and an easy route that includes everything from waterfalls to mountains to rainbow-hued hills is from Portland to Bend.

Once you’ve had your fill of weird in Portland, hit the road to the Columbia River Gorge. This river-carved canyon along the Oregon-Washington border is known for its great hiking trails and incredible waterfalls. Don’t miss Multnomah Falls, or hikes to spots like Latourell Falls, the Oneonta Gorge, and Elowah Falls.

From here, you can head south towards Bend on OR-35, which takes you past Mount Hood, Oregon’s most famous volcano. You could stop to hit the ski slopes or the mountain bike trails on Mt. Hood, or simply ride the Magic Mile Chair Lift up to 7000 feet for great views.

Continue your drive to an otherworldly spot in eastern Oregon: the Painted Hills at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument near Mitchell. Enjoy the scenic drive through the park, and take a short trail or two to get up close to these orange, yellow, and green hills.

You’ll have to retrace your route on your way back towards Bend, so you may as well also stop Smith Rock State Park. Famous for its rock climbing, this stunning park also has some good hikes for all skill levels. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Misery Ridge Trail.

From Smith Rock, it’s only about 40 miles to Bend, the outdoor recreation mecca of Oregon. Bend is a great jumping-off point when you decide to continue your Oregon road trip .

If you drive straight through, this route takes 8 hours. But of course, you don’t want to drive it straight through! I’d recommend at least 3-4 days for the driving portion of this trip, not counting the time you spend in Portland. 

Seattle to the San Juan Islands

From Adria of The Emerald Palate

The San Juan Islands are an incredibly scenic chain of 170 islands about 3 hours north of Seattle that offer a ton of outdoor adventures. San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island are the 3 most popular ones to visit, and all of them are a perfect final stop on a road trip from Seattle.

Starting from Seattle, take I-5 north toward the Skagit Valley. Pronounced “skaaa-jit”, this area spans about 100 miles and is made up of a bunch of quaint towns and farms worth visiting on your road trip.

Start your trip off with a beer tasting flight in Mt. Vernon. If you love shopping, Mt. Vernon has some great antique shops and boutiques worth poking your head into. 

Next head to the nearby Chuckanut Drive. This is one of my favorite things to do in Skagit County, WA . It’s a 20-mile scenic drive that takes you along the coast through dense trees that open up to offer incredible views of the San Juan Islands. Hikers will love the Oyster Dome trail for incredible, uninterrupted views of your final destination. Those looking for more low-key hikes should head to Larrabee State Park.

Before heading to the San Juan Islands, make a stop at Deception Pass State Park. There are a bunch of easy walking trails overlooking some of the bluest water in Washington. It makes for a beautiful photo when you get the mint-colored Deception Pass Bridge in the shot.

Lastly, make your way to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal about an hour before your reserved your ferry ticket (reservations are a must in the summer).

If you chose the quieter and least-visited Lopez Island as your final destination, you can expect the ride to be about an hour on a direct ferry. Orcas Island, the largest and most food-focused of the islands, will take about an hour and 20 minutes. San Juan Island, the most popular and known for art and wildlife, will take about 1.5 hours.

No matter which island you chose, make sure you plan a whale watching tour because this is one of the best places in the world to see orcas and other types of whales.

About 155 miles one way. Here’s a map of the route .

Five days would make for a solid US west coast road trip, spending about 2 days in the Skagit Valley and 3 days on whichever island you choose.

Northeast Oregon

From Erika of Erika’s Travels

Northeast Oregon is an underrated USA west coast road trip destination that will take you to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest. It is an off-the-beaten-path corner of the state that is home to character-filled Western towns, lonely scenic byways, soaring granite peaks, and the deepest canyon in North America. 

The road trip begins and ends in Baker City—a historic town that was once the largest settlement between Portland and Salt Lake. The picturesque town has over 100 historic houses, a phenomenal Oregon Trail interpretive center, and its very own Carnegie Library. 

From Baker City, the road follows the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the artsy town of Joseph, on the shores of Lake Wallowa State Park. 

Lake Wallowa is one of the premier recreation areas in Eastern Oregon. The shimmering cobalt lake is a paradise for boaters, swimmers, and fishing enthusiasts. It is also a primary gateway to the towering granite peaks of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. 

If you have a few days to spare on your road trip, hiking the Wallowas is an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience. The sprawling area boasts alpine lakes, wildflower-laced meadows, and 18 peaks that eclipse 9,000 feet.  

From the Wallowa Mountains near Joseph, the road trip traverses barn-dotted farmlands and winds through a rugged river canyon to the minuscule community of Imnaha. The tiny town is the starting point of an epic adventure along a narrow and treacherous gravel road, to the Hat Point Overlook.

At Hat Point, a fire tower showcases stunning views of canyon walls that rise nearly 8,000 feet above the waters of the Snake River.

After taking some time to soak in the views of  Hells Canyon  from Hat Point, the scenic loop continues toward Baker City. Along the way, it traverses the eastern flank of the Wallowas and winds through golden hills of cow-speckled farmlands. 

A northeast Oregon road trip should ideally take at least 3-4 days. However, If you enjoy camping and hiking, consider adding a few extra days to enjoy the vast Eagle Cap Wilderness in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains. 

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

Because of its simple route and beautiful coastal scenery, the Oregon Coast is the most popular west coast road trip in the state.

If you start at the north end, closer to Portland, you will pass the iconic bridges of Astoria, and also a major artistic hub for film and movies.

Once you reach the city of Seaside, where Lewis and Clark (and Sacagewea and York!) famously completed their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. While you stop to relax on the beachfront, be sure to head to Cannon Beach for a look at Haystack Rock.

Driving south, stop in the city of Tillamook  to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a taste of their globally recognized cheese and farm-fresh ice cream.

Stay overnight in Yachats, a town that prides itself on sourcing local and sustainable products, as well as amazing attractions such as Oregon’s Sea Lion Caves and Cape Perpetua.

Next, wake up and drive to Florence, the sand dune capital of Oregon, and rent ATVs for the day. Or, continue south and spend your time exploring the dramatic views of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. However long you decide to drive the coast, the best lodging options to fully experience the location would be to rent a cabin on the beach.

About 338 miles.

It is not a far distance in total,  so 3-4 days is recommended to explore the Oregon Coast at a more relaxed pace. However, if you are an avid photographer or love to immerse yourself in nature by hiking and camping, spending a week in the area might be more fulfilling. 

Beaches of Olympic National Park

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best US west coast road trips to take in the PNW is to the Olympic National Park Beaches. The Olympic Peninsula beaches are so different than any beaches you have ever seen before! These beaches are filled with sea stacks, tide pools, wildlife, and driftwood. If you are lucky, you will spot a bald eagle while having a nice walk down the beach. 

The first stop should be the Kalaloch Beach. There are many campgrounds here if you want to stay a night. After that, make sure to stop by Ruby Beach, which has an enormous sea stack. It is a perfect place for sunset with the family, and you don’t need to hike too far to get great views.

Next, try out a great hike at Second Beach (4-mile round trip). Many people love backpacking and staying the night at this beautiful spot. The trailhead is located close to River’s Edge Restaurant, which had yummy food and large windows to watch the bald eagles hunt outside. 

The next beach on the list is  Rialto Beach . This beach has a popular hike called The Hole In The Wall hike, and it is around 4 miles round trip. The best time to experience this hike is during low tide. 

The last spot on this trip is a special place called Cape Flattery. This is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and is also part of the Makah Reservation. 

This is a great weekend destination. The first day you should experience Kalaloch, Ruby, and Second Beach, then Stay in Forks. The next day, drive to Rialto Beach and Cape Flattery.

Portland to Cannon Beach

From Daris of The Discovery Nut

The picturesque Cannon Beach is one of the shortest and most popular road trips from Portland.

The most distinct feature of the area is the iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-feet rock formation jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. Not far from it, visitors can explore the scenic Ecola State Park with stunning nature and hikes that can be entered from the north end of Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach stretches for nine miles and provides plenty of space for walking, running, and strolling. Some of the top activities are wildlife watching, hiking, and relaxing. If you look closely, you might spot colonies of puffins on Haystack Rock and spot large mammals such as elk and deer more in the area more inland.

And while the town has become a tourist magnet for travelers taking a west coast USA road trip, it has retained a small-town charm thanks to stringent regulations that limit the number of big-name chains such as stores and restaurants allowing small businesses to dominate the downtown.

You can easily road trip to Cannon Beach from Portland on a day trip, but to enjoy a quieter side to this beautiful spot, consider spending the night.

Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park

From Rachel of Rachel Off Duty

When visiting Anchorage, Alaska, one thing you absolutely must do is rent a car and drive down to the Kenai Peninsula. Just 2.5 – 3 hours away from Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula is a natural wonderland where the ice age mixes with the present day. Lush, dense forests, teal glacial water, massive glaciers, and abundant wildlife make this destination one that truly can’t be missed. 

Driving from Anchorage, within minutes you’ll find yourself tracing the side of Chugach State Park and Turnagain Arm, a massive waterway famous for bore tides that happen on a near-daily basis. Pullover at Beluga Point for a great viewing point of Turnagain Arm and, you guessed it, belugas! 

Back on the road, continue until you hit Girdwood, a resort town that’s bustling with things to do for adventure-lovers. You can stay here for the night, or simply make a pit stop for a bite to eat. Jack Sprat Restaurant is a popular choice, or for something more upscale with unbeatable views, go to Seven Glaciers Restaurant (which you can access by tram!). 

From Girdwood, it’s just another hour and 45 minutes to Seward, the entry point for Kenai Fjords National Park. Once you’re here, you can explore the national park on foot, by kayak, or by boat tour. On Resurrection Bay, you might spot whales, sea lions, otters, kittiwakes, and more! Be sure to also check out Exit Glacier, which is the only glacier you can pretty much drive right up to, park, and enjoy without hiking. 

While a trip to Kenai Fjords National Park and a quick boat tour of Resurrection Bay can easily be done in one day with minimal stops, we recommend dedicating at least 2 days to exploring the park and the surrounding areas in south-central Alaska .

Anchorage, Seward + Denali Loop

From Jenifer of The Evolista

What’s better than an Alaskan cruise? An Alaskan road trip!

On a road trip in Alaska, you’ll see breathtaking views of mountains, wildlife, and ocean critters along with thrilling active pursuits along the way. 

Starting in Anchorage, take one of the most scenic roads in America, Seward Highway to visit Kenai Fjords National Park. Once in Seward, you can hike a glacier, take a whale-watching cruise, go iceberg kayaking, fishing, or one of sample some of these exciting things to do in Seward .

The next stop is Girdwood, Alaska’s ski resort town. Stay in the luxurious Alyeska Resort where you’ll have access to multiple hiking trails and the Alyeska Aerial Tram for breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountain Range.

Talkeetna, Alaska, 3 hours north, is a quirky, fun town that some say was the inspiration for the TV show Northern Exposure. Around May 1st, Talkeetna is overflowing with climbers preparing for a Denali summit. Not planning to climb a 20,320-foot mountain? You can still have the experience of a lifetime with a flightseeing tour complete with a glacier landing.

If you have an extra few days to spare, the entrance to Denali National Park is 2 hours north. The 6 million-acre national park is one of the best places in the world to spend time up close with wildlife but it’s too large for a day trip to be worth it. Plan accordingly and head back to Anchorage to complete the trip.

488 miles without Denali, 767 with Denali.

One week trip for Seward, Girdwood, Talkeetna, and Anchorage.

If you want to include Denali National Park, add a few days to this west coast USA road trip itinerary. There are additional activities near Denali like ATV trips or going to see the Into the Wild bus in Healy, Alaska.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

Vielen Dank für die Tollen Anregungen. kann es kaum erwarten loszufahren. Grüße,Noeppes

Bitte schön!

Thanks a lot! I’m from Europe and planning a road trip for next year on the West Coast, focusing on Oregon and Washington. This was really helpful and interesting to read! I can’t wait to discover this fantastic country.

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From Baja to British Columbia, these are the 101 best West Coast experiences

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Walk the vast salt flats of Death Valley. Enter a den of magic and mystery on a Hollywood hilltop. Sidle up to a whale in a Baja lagoon. Tiptoe above a misty forest in Vancouver. Page through rare books under an open sky in Ojai. Though it rises, falls and sprawls for thousands of miles, this is our backyard. We’ll help you explore it. Here in these stories, find out what makes the West Coast, well, the absolute best coast.

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Countdown to Summer: 9 Best West Coast Escapes

C'mon, admit it. The west coast is the best coast. There's the damn near perfect weather, the laid back lifestyle, the postcard-worthy beaches and don't even get us started on the eats. Still not convinced? Check out these 9 west coast getaways and you'll be California dreamin' in no time.

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Santa Monica

Anyone who says that no one walks in LA hasn’t been to Santa Monica. Though surrounded on three sides by America’s second-largest city, the artsy beach community has miles of bike lanes, car-free promenades and large, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. Take a walk down the wooden planks of Santa Monica Pier and see local anglers fishing for mackerel while jugglers, sketch artists and other street performers put their talents on display. After, give your credit card a workout on Main Street's mile-long strip of galleries, restaurants and boutique shops. We love the one-of-a-kind turquoise jewelry and vintage pieces at Love Adorned and the wares from brands like Raquel Allegra and Lemlem at Lost & Found . Make your base Shutters on the Beach , which has a distinctive whitewashed shutter façade, three world-class restaurants and a museum-worthy art collection, including works by Hockney and Lichtenstein.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Santa Monica, CA hotels

Those “Keep Portland Weird” bumper stickers you see all over town don’t come from nowhere. Proof: Every June , thousands of cyclists take to P-town's streets to protest transport pollution while wearing nothing but helmets and body paint. But don't worry—if you prefer to keep your clothes on, Portlandia has something for you too. At Rontoms , you can play ping pong, drink local craft brew and listen to free live music on a buzzy outdoor patio. Bibliophiles will want to linger over the million-plus (yes, really) titles at Powell's City of Books , the flagship of the largest independent chain of bookstores in the world. Want to pick up some cool retro souvenirs? Check out Crossroads , a sprawling emporium of used vinyl from more than 35 individual record collectors. Shop for a classic rock or jazz record (their specialty) or skip the tunes altogether and opt for a cool vintage concert poster.

RELATED:   9 Best Hotels in Portland, Oregon

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The 90 mile-stretch of craggy coastline that makes up Big Sur is undeniably one of America's most beautiful landcapes. Explore the redwood groves at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park , hike to the beach and the McWay Falls , or go surfing at Sand Dollar Beach . You can also saddle up with Molera Horseback Tours for rides through Andrew Molera State Park . Tours range from one to two-and-a-half hours and take guests across flower-filled meadows and forests, then end with a ride along Molera Beach. Big Sur has plenty of stylish stays, and if you're looking to splurge, book a room at the eco-luxe Post Ranch Inn , a collection of 40 high-design cottages on a ridge 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, or check into the rustic-chic Ventana Big Sur , with 243 private wooded acres.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Big Sur, CA hotels

It may be one of the rainiest city's in the US, but come summer, Seattle is the place to be: the sunshine is out and beaches packed, the outdoor bars are in full swing, and the locals are deliriously happy. Pike Place Market is always a crowd pleaser with its fish throwing and stalls of fresh flowers, plus great restaurants like the recently opened Jarr Bar and Matt's in the Market . From there, you're a short walk away from Pioneer Square, where you can admire the neighborhood's Renaissance Revival architecture, take a history-packed Underground Tour or get your culture fix at galleries like Foster/White , home to the work of big-name artists like glass prodigy Dale Chihuly. If you're curious to check out the roots of the Seattle grunge movement, take in a gig at Belltown's legendary The Crocodile , where bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam once played.

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Santa Barbara

If you can't make it to Northern California’s wine country, Santa Barbara County ⎯ which includes Santa Ynez, Los Olivos and the antiques-filled town of Solvang ⎯ is the next best thing. There are nearly 250 wineries in the area, but the standouts are Au Bon Climat , which has been making subtle pinot noirs for 25 years, and Kunin , known for producing small lots of Rhone-style wines. Another way to taste it all is on the Urban Wine Trail , a walkable trail downtown made up of 30 vineyards that turn out rich Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and more. Get over your wine hangover with wild boar meatballs and a slice of thin-crust truffle pizza at Cecco Ristorante , followed by a walk along Butterfly Beach.

Laguna Beach

Equal parts glam (courtesy of its covetable location in Orange County) and boho (thanks to the artists and surfers who call the seaside community home), Laguna Beach has been luring travelers since the 1920s. Get in step with the beach town's artistic vibe with a walk down Gallery Row. Here, ateliers and galleries abound (local artist Ruth Mayer is a favorite), and the first Thursday of the month is reserved for the festive Art Walk , when the galleries stay open late. Cafés, restaurants and bars dot this walkable city—don't miss the lobster rolls and chowder fries (yes, that's clam chowder and bacon-covered frites) at Slapfish , and the Sonoma Valley wine flights and ocean views at Driftwood Kitchen . Now that you're ready to descend into a full on food coma, crash at the Pacific Edge Hotel , a 129-room surfer-themed hotel located on the softest swathe of sand in Laguna.

Cannon Beach

Brimming with art galleries, shingled storefronts and charming family-owned restaurants, Cannon Beach has become one of Oregon’s must-see beach towns. Hit the more than five miles of sand between Ecola Creek and Arch Cape for unbeatable views of Haystack Rock, one of the state’s most recognizable landmarks, and after, grab a broiled shrimp sandwich and a slice of apple walnut cake from Lazy Susan Café . On drizzly days, check out the town's buzzing art scene at White Bird Gallery , the oldest fine arts gallery in town, and Bronze Coast Gallery , which displays lost-cast bronze sculptures. At the end of the day, there's no cozier place to unwind than at the Stephanie Inn . The warm interiors offer plenty of nooks to curl up in, from the oceanfront library and chart room to the lobby, which has a striking stone hearth.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Cannon Beach, OR hotels

If you’re into Victorian architecture, salty ocean air and green meadow scenery, Pescadero is for you. Half way between Santa Cruz and San Francisco, the town may be small, but it's got coastal charm in spades, along with knockout natural scenery (sky-high redwoods and crystal-blue). During the day, head to Whaler’s Cove beach, where you can spot elephant seals and gray whales, plus the iconic 115-foot-tall Pigeon Point Lighthouse that towers over the landscape. Hungry? The nearby Taqueria y Mercado de Amigos , an unassuming taco joint set within a gas station convenience store, serves up pan dulce (sweet bread) and barbecued pork and cow tongue tacos (hey, don't knock it 'till you've tried it). At night, hang with the locals and listen to live bluegrass at the San Gregorio General Store .

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Palm Springs

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elizabeth Taylor—a who’s who of showbiz has long found solace in Palm Springs. Today this desert oasis is the perfect mix of modern and kitschy which attracts a hip L.A. crowd. Spend an afternoon wandering the Uptown Design District, where eye-catching boutiques (we love the Midcentury housewares at Christopher Anthony ) are joined by retro-chic restaurants and bars. Bootlegger Tiki , Palm Canyon Drive's mixology-centered newcomer, has a 12-2 a.m. happy hour, kitschy luau-themed décor, and hangover-worthy cocktails (we love the cheekily-named Mango Unchained.) If live music is what you seek, check out Melvyn's at Ingleside Inn , the storied supper club-style hangout once frequented by Ol' Blue Eyes himself.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Palm Springs, CA hotels

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West Coast Weekend trips: exploring new cities one weekend at a time

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: June 4, 2017  - Last updated: February 4, 2024

It’s no secret that we love the weekends.  I mean, who doesn’t? With or without the kids we try to break away to a new city or visit one of our old favs whenever possible. There are loads of West Coast weekend trips you can take for a great recharge on life, so here are our top five that’ll help you relax and while discovering some place new.

West Coast Weekend Trips to Remember

Yeah, you can take two days to chill at home and get caught up on laundry or binge watch a new show or something, or you can head out and see what’s just beyond your front door.  That’s what the concept of being a Seekender is all about.  We’re totally behind it and are excited to inspire others to do it too!

Puget Sound Area weekend trips

Depending on the time of year there are several awesome weekend trips you can do in the Puget Sound area .  One of our favorites, which says a lot because we’ve lived in the area most of our lives, is hitting the North Sound.  A little over an hour north of Seattle you’ll find a totally different world that’s interesting and easy to explore.

Anacortes and Whidbey Island

For the longest time we would pretend Anacortes wasn’t a town, but just a place to catch the ferry or drive through to get to Whidbey Island, but then we went and explored it on a weekend and fell in love… and then have since returned several times.  We found the downtown area to be hoppin’ with lots of great local beers and a whole lot of park fun for the kids.

Right next door to Anacortes is Whidbey Island, which could be good for a few weekend trips itself.  Whether the plan is hiking in Deception Pass or wandering through the retired bunkers of Fort Casey State Park , you’ll have oodles of outdoor options for exploring and relaxing.  And then there are also plenty of wineries on the island.  And the sleepy little town of Coupeville where Practical Magic was filmed.  Tons to explore.  

Both Anacortes and the towns of Whidbey Island have a calm, quiet feel even in the height of their many festivals, so you’ll have ample opportunities to relax and regroup.

San Juan Islands

Who needs to fly across the country to find pristine beaches and turquoise waters?  Not us because we can take a weekend trip to the San Juan Islands.  Or we could even just visit one of the many islands for a day.  

Ferries leave several time each day out of Anacortes, so planning a weekend trip or a day of dining and nature is totally doable.  Orcas Island is our favorite to visit with San Juan Island being a close second.  Towns like Eastsound, Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor make the San Juans quite picturesque and relaxing.  Great food and rolling farms paired with historic hotels and lighthouses … The San Juan Islands are a wonderfully unique experience to consider for one of your upcoming weekend trips.

Tip :  check out the ferry schedule before starting your day in the San Juan Islands.  Don’t get stuck or miss your boats.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Okay, this is totally date-driven, but if you can work it out, weekend trips in April and May can put you in tulip country at just the right time.  The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  happens every year and the amount of color is overwhelming.  

La Conner is the main drag for getting into the spirit and exploring a vintage fishing village.  On a weekday it’s pretty sleepy, but on the weekend you’ll find lots of local art in the galleries, bottomless fresh seafood straight outta Puget Sound and local brews too.  You can’t go wrong spending a weekend touring tulip fields and getting a dose of Pacific Northwest history.  The combo is perfect.  And can you think of any better way to recharge than sitting in a field of flowers?  No.

Movies to inspire PNW weekend trips :  Practical Magic (Coupeville/Whidbey Island), An Officer and a Gentleman (Pt Townsend, ferry from Whidbey), The Ring (San Juan Islands) – yes, I said to watch a creepy movie.

Portland Area weekend trips

Portland , Oregon itself is a cool city.  We’ve escaped to the City of Roses for a weekend on more than one occasion and have come to appreciate Portland for the weird wonder that it is.  If you haven’t explored it yet, make sure one of your summer or fall weekend trips lands you in Portland.  The food scene is probably the most vibrant take-away from a Seekender weekend in PDX, but when you add the side trips out of the city, you’ll see why we keep heading back for more.

Northern Oregon Coast

“Goonies never say die!!”  True story.  Astoria and Cannon beach are just outside of Portland and are also known as the Goondocks.  If you were a child of the 80s you know exactly what I’m talking about.  If not, go find a VCR and an older friend who still has The Goonies on VHS tape.

If you have not clue what we’re talking about but love the idea of rugged coastline and lighthouses , that’s an easy weekend trip too.  Relaxing on a bluff watching the sun set behind the Tillamook Rock Light…  Walking the streets of Astoria and checking out the Victorian era architecture… Hiking to the Cape Meares lighthouse to get up close with the Pacific Northwest ’s nautical past… There are so many opportunities to have new experiences just outside of Portland .

Columbia Gorge Waterfall Area

We actually just returned from the Columbia Gorge where we stayed in Hood River at the Hampton Inn and Suites directly on the water.  Whether you’re staying in Portland or Hood River, the Columbia Gorge is a must-visit.  The moss covered hiking trails and iconic Multnomah Falls are unforgettable, especially with kids.  Spring is the best time to plan a weekend trip to the Waterfall Area due to lots of rain and snow-melt, but even in the heat of summer it’s amazing.  Take a look at our full account of this truly unique place .

Movies to inspire :  The Goonies (Astoria, Cannon Beach), Kindergarten Cop (Astoria), Free Willy (Astoria), Maverick (Columbia River Gorge), Grimm (series set in Portland), Portlandia (because.)

San Francisco Bay Area trips

With airfare to the Bay Area being much cheaper from other West Coast destinations than, say, places like New York or Miami, it’s really a great option for exploring and seeing a new side of California.  Having lived in SF exploring the city is merely wandering on a different walking path than normal.  Or it’s taking the MUNI out to Ocean Beach instead of driving.  But you know, if you’re local to the Bay Area, there is more to explore beyond the city.

A day in San Jose

Ever since I was a kid I wanted to visit the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California.  All it took was moving to San Francisco and exploring the larger city to the south to finally get to visit.  OMG, what a weird and kinda creepy place, but really cool!  Yes, it’s totally a tourist trap and rightfully so: it’s iconic, bizarre, and unique among historic sites.  But it is also a new and fascinating way to learn some history.  If exploring on the weekends doesn’t include a bit of history of some sort, well, how can it not?

San Jose is actually a city of neighborhoods and smaller cities, so after you’ve been sufficiently creeped out by the Winchester Mystery House, you can go explore… or shop.   Santana Row is super close if you’re in the shopping mood or entertainment sounds fun.  Also nearby is the Children’s Discovery Museum and the San Jose Museum of Art .  

Funny story :  the first time I ever saw one of the inflatable, flappy car lot balloon men was at the San Jose Museum of Art.  An artist was displaying the concept as part of a modern installation… and now the flappy dudes are everywhere as advertising beacons.  #CuttingEdge.

Across the Golden Gate Bridge

When you talk to people who live in San Francisco or around they can tell you all about the cool neighborhoods, like Telegraph Hill or The Mission , but not a ton of them have explored the Golden Gate Bridge or gone north to Muir Woods .  

First of all, if you don’t have a National Parks Passport  yet, go get one.  Once you do, head out of the bustle of downtown San Francisco and head to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area .  Here you’ll find Fort Mason, Crissy Fields, some awesome old bunkers and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Get your National Park Passport stamped and find some new history and fascination in SF.  And then cross the bridge.

Just north of Sausalito you’ll come to Muir Woods National Monument .  This is a quiet place you’ll love… and it’ll feel really familiar.  When you get there, close your eyes, listen, when you hear a twig snap DROP!! No doubt you’ll realize that this is where the Storm Troopers chased Luke and Leia on speeders in Return of the Jedi.  The woods are absolutely beautiful and the trees enormous.  This is a great spot to relax during a weekend trip, with the forest being so dense you’ll lose yourself immediately.

Movies to inspire :  Return of the Jedi (Muir Woods), Star Trek IV (Golden Gate & SF), So I Married an Axe Murderer (SF), and in 2018 Winchester (I can’t wait!)

Los Angeles weekend trips

We love Los Angeles for lots of reasons, but one primary driver for use continually going back for weekend trips is for the countless things we can do with or without the kids all around LA and Southern California .  We shared a whole article about the fun and f ree things to do in Los Angeles , but there’s a whole world beyond the city too.

Palm Springs

Planning a weekend trip to Palm Springs is genius.  So much of LA heads to the beaches on the weekend, and rightfully so, but not as many head east to Palm Springs.  What we love about weekend trips like this are that we can find cool and unusual activities while everybody else is doing the shopping/dining thing.  Hiking the Indian Canyons of Aguas Calientes is so unusual and amazing.  Did you know that you can have a relaxing getaway to a palm oasis in the desert just beyond the traffic of Los Angeles?  #TrueStory.  Before we even had heard the concept of being a Seekender, this was our favorite place to relax and getaway on a weekend when we lived in SoCal.

I know, you’re thinking “Aren’t you sharing relaxing ideas?”  Yes, totally.  Have you ever been to Disneyland without kids?  It’s amazing!!  True, you spend the whole time thinking about how much you wish your kids were with you, but it’s such a great adult getaway.  I think the prime relaxation comes in the magic of it all and being swept out of yourself, with or without kids.  

And if you’re doing Disneyland with the kids as part of a weekend trip, here are our tips:

Arrive early and stay late

Know that it’s okay to not do everything

Take time to enjoy the incredible stage of the overall Disneyland show

Be at the entrance to CarsLand AT SUNSET to watch the neon light up.  Pure magic.

And single-rider – if one of you wants to do a major attraction, ask if you can go as a single

Movies to inspire :  La La Land (vintage Los Angeles), Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (LA beach vibe), Oceans 11 (Palm Springs vibe), Cars (because California Adventure…), anything with Bing Crosby (vintage SoCal)

San Diego weekend trips

Whether you’re heading to San Diego for a weekend trip or you live there and need to explore beyond your front door, you’ve got some wonderful options to surprise you and get you excited about the SD life.  And if you aren’t inspired by our two favorite day trips, just head to Mission Beach or Pacific Beach; let the sand and surf relax you.

Cabrillo National Monument

We’ve been asked by a few friends “if you could live in one National Park, which would it be?”  Both Chris and I said Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego.  Without even having to go far from San Diego itself Cabrillo is a total gem.  We love our lighthouses and tidepools, and that’s exactly what you’ll find here.   Cabrillo National Monument is set across the bay from San Diego so it’s quiet and beautiful with a stellar view.

If you are thinking about weekend trips with kids, Cabrillo National Monument is actually ideal for that because you’ll be able to experience living history within the park on most weekends.  Adding history to a beautiful escape is like finding an incredible cheese to serve with… more delicious cheese.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

I’m always surprised how few people have been here.  I grew up reading the story of the swallows of Mission San Juan Capistrano , so on a weekend trip out of San Diego we headed just north to the town and mission.  It was so beautiful and really perfect for taking a break from life.  Mission San Juan Capistrano is full of history and has been restored really well to showcase it, but it also is full of flowers and art and bells and birds…  It’s a total Seekender thing to do to visit an all but forgotten historic mission.

West Coast weekend trips are just the best.  We could go on and on and never stop making suggestions and sharing stories about the places we’ve discovered.  Being a Seekender and finding new ways to relax and explore just beyond your front door is something anybody can aspire to.  We always have, and thanks to partnering with Hampton by Hilton, we’re doing it more and more!

What do you think?  Ready to plot and plan a weekend trip to explore one of our favorite West Coast cities and get a recharge on life?  Where are you heading next?  Leave a note below to share or to point us towards our next adventure.

Erin Perkins

Wednesday 23rd of May 2018

So just because you hyped Bing Crosby movies I'll tell you this fun fact you may not know....Bing was one of the financiers behind the Del Mar Race Track and was there opening day. :D

Also, this is a great post! I love your ideas.

Navigation Junkie

Conquering the world…one city at a time.

West Coast Girls’ Trip Ideas: 15 Weekend Trips in the Western US For the Mom Who Needs a Getaway!

In previous posts, we established the importance of a mom break and explored various destination choices on the East Coast USA and Europe . Now we will dive into the great destination options for a West coast girls’ trip for the mom looking for a weekend getaway and chance to pamper and recharge herself for the full time job of parenting. But don’t worry, even ladies without children need a break and for those of you who have stumbled upon this post, don’t feel guilty for indulging in a weekend getaway for yourself!

The West Coast of the continental US includes the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. Scattered along the coast you will find plenty of beach destinations and coastal towns, quaint villages with small town charm, culture, history, art, outdoor adventure, and night life! No matter how you choose to have fun and recharge yourself, there is something for everyone on the West Coast!

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San Diego, California

If you are looking for the perfect combination of a beach and city getaway for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip, San Diego should be one of your top choices! You can experience waves, sand in your toes, sunbathing, culture, spa days, night life, and even tequila tasting!

For some relaxation, visit Balboa Park where you can enjoy a stroll or bike ride through the park, a picnic lunch, and enjoy views of the many gardens found in the park. While in Balboa Park you will want to visit the colorful Spanish Village to view some local artwork and find unique, handcrafted items.

Visit a day spa to recharge and reenergize yourself while enjoying full body massages, body scrubs, facials, saunas, and whatever else will refresh you! San Diego has plenty of spa options to choose from. Spa at the Del offers a private pool to relax in, facials, and massages. SpaTerre at the Kona Kai Resort features massage chairs and exotic treatments including Thai Herbal Therapy and aromatherapy with medicinal herbs.

The San Diego Tequila Tour will take you to Rockin’ Baja Lobster, Old Town Tequila Factory, and El Agave Tequileria where you can taste unique tequila drinks while snacking on tortilla chips and salsa. Visit Old Town San Diego , aka the birthplace of California, for history museum, live music, and tasty treats.

For those looking to enjoy the Pacific Ocean, check out Mission Beach, La Jolla Shores & Cove, or Coronado City Beach. San Diego’s Mission Beach boardwalk is the perfect choice if you are looking for some waves and entertainment, while Coronado City Beach will give you a little bit quieter of an atmosphere. For a little bit more adventure check out Coronado’s bike and kayak tours or La Jolla Kayak Tours .

If you are up for some spooks tour the Whaley House Museum . For some nightlife be sure to visit Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, where you will find 16 blocks of nightclubs, rooftop bars, live music and dancing, and mouthwatering restaurants.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State has a unique experience to offer visitors no matter the season, so it should be considered for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip any time of year! Visit in the spring/summer for some hiking and wild flowers, visit in the fall for stunning fall foliage, or visit in winter for some skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hikes. Mount Rainier National Park encompasses 240,000 acres of forest with one of the main features being Mount Rainier, a 14,411 feet volcano.

For some scenic views, take a scenic drive along the White Pass or Chinook Scenic Byway or ride the Mt. Rainier Gondolas . The gondolas take you up 2,400 ft. to the summit, where you will be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding area.

For some shorter day hikes, check out the Nisqually Vista hike, Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail, or the Sourdough Ridge Trail. If you and the girls are up for more of a challenge, hike the Skyline Trail to Paranorma Point, the Tolmie Peak Trail, the Mount Freemont Lookout Trail, or the Green Lake Trail. If you are a waterfall chaser, be sure to visit Christine Falls, Myrtle Falls, Carter Falls, and Narada Falls which are easily reached with a short hike.

With all the hiking to be done in Mount Rainier National Park, you are sure to build up an appetite. Visit the Summit House , which is reached on the gondola ride, for fresh salads, soups, pastas, pizza, and chili. Or enjoy a Sunday brunch at the Paradise Inn Dining Room with stunning views of Mount Rainier in the background.

Big Sur, California

Big Sur, California is the perfect West Coast area for a girls’ weekend road trip. Big Sur is a 90 mile stretch along the Pacific coast extending from Carmel southward to San Simeon. The total drive is about two hours, but if you take advantage of all the lookouts and stop points you can easily spend a weekend there.

The best route along the Big Sur is North to West, so a start in Camel is your best option. Carmel-By-the-Sea is a small, charming costal village with lots of local shops and restaurants. While in Carmel you can also hit the beach or visit the Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo , a restored Roman Catholic mission church.

As you begin your journey you will want to stop at the Point Lobos State Natural Preserve . Here you will find great views of the Pacific Ocean, sealions bathing in the sun, Cypress Groves, and many points of interest, including Bird Island, Whaler’s Cabin, and Devil’s Cauldron. Next, the Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail will take you along the cliff edges and step down to Garrapata State Beach a couple miles down the road.

The Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most popular stops along Big Sur. There are pull off areas where you can stop for that instagrammable photo. The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park will be next with plenty of opportunity for short hikes, such as the Pfeiffer Falls Trail or longer hikes, such as the Mt. Manuel Trail. A short drive from there will take you to the purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach. McWay Falls will be another must visit stop where you can get great views of the unique waterfall spilling into the ocean.

The best (and cheapest) way to spend a night in Big Sur is by camping or glamping. Treebones Resort offers camping, yurts, and luxury tents. Big Sur Campground & Cabins offers a selection of camping sites and cabins. For a price you can find indoor accommodations at the Post Ranch Inn or find some more affordable options at the Big Sur Lodge .

Orange County, California

Orange County is a region on the Southern California coast that is known for its theme parks and surfing beaches. For thrill seekers, Orange County should be considered for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip.

Orange County is home to Disneyland , a place for not only the young but also the young at heart. Enjoy your mom’s weekend away by riding Disney thrill rides Splash Mountain and Space Mountain, try some of Disney’s irresistible tasty treats, and meet your favorite childhood characters! As an alternative visit Knott’s Berry Farm , another well known theme park in the area or Knott’s Soak City, a waterpark.

Huntington Beach is one of the best stops for surfing, sunbathing, and sunset viewing. The Salt Creek Beach Park is another great option for catching some waves. Crystal Cove State Park is a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the waves crashing against the shore.

For some beautiful architecture and history visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano . Stroll Laguna Beach for art galleries, art festivals if you are visiting at the right time of year, and live entertainment. During low tide visit the tide pools at Laguna Beach to see them full of all sorts of sea life. Visit Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking options, wild life viewing, horseback riding, or bike riding.

Enjoy some unique and local beers on an OC brewery tour or spend an afternoon shopping at Old Towne Orange. When the sun goes down you can get out and enjoy music, live entertainment, dancing, and drinks at one of OC’s many nightclubs and bars.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands are a set of four islands (Lopez, Shaw, San Juan, and Orcas) located off the coast of Washington State. All four of the San Juan Islands can be reached via ferry from the town of Anacortes. The most popular and most adventurous of the islands are San Juan Island and Orcas Island.

On San Juan Island you can enjoy a seaplane tour , moped rental and tour, ride the Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley , visit Lime Kiln State Park and view the Lime Klin Lighthouse, enjoy a picnic lunch in front of the Cattle Point Lighthouse, go biking at American Camp and English Camp, go kayaking in the San Juan channel, hike to the summit of Mount Young, go shopping in Friday Harbor, or go scuba diving in the waters surrounding San Juan Island.

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands, but is much quieter than San Juan Island. On Orcas Island, be sure to visit Orcas Village where you will find some small shops and a cidery. Hike or drive to the top of Mount Constitution for some stunning views of the surrounding areas, including views of Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park in the distance. Go waterfall chasing and hiking in  Moran State Park or go kayaking or paddle boarding on one of Orcas Island’s two lakes.

Enjoy some wine tasting at Madrone Cellars & Ciders on San Juan Island or the Orcas Island Winery on Orcas Island. Both San Juan Island and Orcas Island are home to spas to fulfill all your relaxation and rejuvenating needs. Get out on the water and enjoy some wild life on either San Juan Island or Orcas Island with a whale watching excursion .

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a well known city sitting on the coast of California, well known for the Golden Gate Bridge and the remaining Victorian style homes.

A West Coast weekend girls’ trip to San Francisco must include a ride on the iconic San Francisco cable car, a walk (or drive) along the most crooked street in the world (Lombard Street), a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge park to see the world famous Golden Gate Bridge, and a stop to snap an instagram worthy image on the tiled stairs in the Sunset District. For those interested in the darker side of San Francisco’s history take a trip to Alcatraz Island . For some relaxation enjoy a picnic lunch in Alamo Square Park and take in views of the Painted Ladies, some of San Francisco’s colorful Victorian homes.

Spend some time walking Pier 39 , viewing the sealions, enjoying waterfront views, visit some of San Francisco’s quirky attractions like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Madame Tussaud’s, and grab some fresh seafood. If you are looking to enjoy some of San Francisco’s local food enjoy the Local Tastes of the City Tour . If you’re a Disney fan, be sure to visit the The Walt Disney Family Museum .

Enjoy some shopping at the Embarcadero District, Union Square, or Hayes Valley. When the sun goes down experience San Francisco’s nightlife by bar hopping along Valencia Street, Polk Street, or the Marina.

Portland, Oregon

If you’re looking for a city getaway on the West Coast of Oregon, Portland may be the stop for you! Enjoy views of the iconic St Johns Bridge from below at Cathedral Park or walk across on the pedestrian sidewalk. Hop aboard the Portland Aerial Tram for views of downtown Portland. Stroll the International Rose Garden or the Japanese Garden for a relaxing experience filled with dozens of colorful flower species.

Enjoy an underground walking tour and walk through the Shanghai Tunnels where illegal smuggling once took place. Get outdoors and enjoy some hiking through Washington Park or Forest Park. Join a guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge or visit on your own for some hiking and waterfall viewing.

Visit the Saturday Market (open Saturdays and Sundays) for fresh food and local, handmade arts & crafts. Catch a midnight showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Clinton Street Theater . Visit a unique bookstore at Powell’s City of Books.

For art lovers, visit the Portland Art Museum or the various galleries in the Pearl District and Old Town. Get out on the water and enjoy a Booze Cruise on a 14 passenger pedal powered boat. For some more liquor tasting visit Distillery Row where you will find 12 unique distilleries. For a tasty treat visit Voodoo Donuts for some unique donut flavors or visit Cartlandia for some tasty food truck meals.

For some night time fun you can enjoy some dancing, karaoke, bowling, and drinks at Dig a Pony, Holocene, White Owl Social Club, or the Goodfoot Pub & Lounge. Visit Old Town Chinatown on a weekend night when the streets are closed off to traffic and the streets come alive with music, dancing, and celebration!

Palm Springs, California

For a weekend getaway involving hot springs, shopping, spas, and nature California’s Spa City may be the answer for you! A trip to Palm Springs will give you plenty of options for relaxing and soaking in the many mineral hot springs believed to have healing powers.

Choose from Palm Spring’s spas, the Azure Spa, Estrella Spa, or Two Bunch Palms Spa, for a day of self care. Visit nearby Desert Hot Springs and explore the many hot and cold water mineral springs where you can soak in pools and jacuzzis after enjoying a massage and delicious cocktail.

For the outdoor gang, enjoy some stunning views of the Coachella Valley on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway , hike to the Tahquitz Waterfall nestled within the Tahquitz Canyon , visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park , or explore desert plants at the Moorten Botanical Gardens .

Enjoy an eco tour through the Coachella Valley and enjoy desert views, canyons, rock formations, and more! Go for a hike at the Agua Caliente Indian Canyons or at the Thousand Palms Oasis. For a unique view of the Coachella Valley enjoy a hot air balloon ride . Head out to the desert on a sunset tour for some seclusion and magnificent views.

If you enjoy museums and art, visit the Cabazon Cultural Museum, Allan Pitchko Art Galleries, Backstreet Art District Art Walk, or the Palm Springs Art Museum. You can catch some live entertainment at the Annenberg Theater. If golfing is your thing you will find over 100 championship-level golf courses in the area. For some shopping visit the Shops on El Paseo or along Palm Canyon Drive. You can also find plenty of night life options in Palm Springs, from casinos to night clubs and bars.

Joseph, Oregon

Located in Eastern Oregon, Joseph is a city featuring plenty of outdoor expeditions, natural beauty, adventure, shopping, and culture! Although you won’t find access to the Pacific Ocean, there is much to be adored and admired on a west coast weekend girls’ trip to Joseph.

For some outdoor adventure, Joseph is known for its whitewater rafting adventures. You can join one of many tours with Winding Waters River Expeditions . Joseph is also home to miles of excellent mountain biking trails. Visit Wallowa Lake State Park for some outdoor fun-swimming, kayaking, and paddle boating. Take a ride on the Wallowa Lake Tram for stunning views of Wallowa Lake and enjoy a nice meal at the Summit Grill .

Go horseback riding or hiking at the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area or for a unique experience take a ride on the Joseph Brach Rail railriders through Wallowa Valley. You can also hike your way to one of the many lakes in Joseph and the surrounding area, including Maxwell Lake, Mirror Lake, Brownie Basin, LaGore Lake, and Copper Creek Basin. If visiting in the summer and looking for a place to cool off visit the Blue Hole, which can be accessed from the Indian Crossing Trailhead.

Go shopping for some local fresh food and handmade arts & crafts at the Wallowa Valley Farmers Market every Saturday or stroll downtown Joseph for cute local shops and boutiques. Stop at Arrowhead Chocolates for some chocolatey treats, coffee, and tea. Visit the Stein Distillery in downtown Joseph for whiskey tasting or Embers Brewhouse for food and local brews.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

For wine lovers, the Willamette Valley wine region is one destination you should consider for your west coast girls’ weekend trip with over 600 wineries in the region. Willamette Valley is a 150 mile long valley stretching from Portland Southward to Eugene.

A wine tasting tour, either self planned or guided , is a given when visiting Willamette Valley. Some of the must visit wineries in the region include Willamette Valley Vineyards, Eyrie Vineyards, and the Domaine Serene Winery.

Aside from wine tasting, a stay at the Allison Inn & Spa can make your trip complete. The inn features a full spa with massages, facials, manicures, & pedicures, a sculpture garden, and an onsite restaurant. For art lovers visit the areas many art museums, including the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, and the Mid-Willamette Valley Art Trail.

A visit to Silver Falls State Park will give you the opportunity to hike, camp, go horseback riding, and view Silver Falls. If you’re a bike rider go for a ride along the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway or follow the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway.

Grants Pass, Oregon

Grants Pass is a city located in Southern Oregon near the Rouge River. Grants Pass is a great West Coast weekend girls’ trip option for an outdoor escape combined with art and culture.

Grants Pass offers plenty of water activities. Hop aboard one of Hellgate Jetboat Excursions ‘ tours for a thrilling time on Rogue River or choose from many tour companies for a rafting experience on the river. Another way to experience Rouge River is by walking the pedestrian bridge at Reinhart Park.

See the beautiful Rainie Falls after a moderate 3.7 mile hike or choose from trails of all levels for a hike at Cathedral Hills. Go ziplining at Rogue Valley Zipline Adventure. Visit nearby Oregon Caves National Monument for a unique tour of the cave system.

If visiting in season, be sure to stop at Lavender Fields Forever and stroll through fields of bright purple lavender and stop for a photo op. Explore a real life ghost town, Golden, which was once a mining town home to over 100 residents.

For art lovers visit the Grants Pass Museum of Art or catch a live performance at the Barnstormers Theatre or Rogue Theatre. Visit Glass Forge to see stunning works or art and watch glass blowing live. Go wine tasting along the Applegate Wine Trail , featuring 19 local and distinct wineries. Shop downtown Grants Pass for the many local boutique shops and antique stores.

Bandon, Oregon

Bandon, Oregon is one of the best west coast weekend girls’ trip destinations for relaxation with less crowds and a slower pace than some of Oregon’s coastal towns.

For some scenic views visit the Coquille River Lighthouse or drive the Beach Loop Drive to some well known rock formations, including Face Rock, Elephant Rock, and Wizard’s Hat. Walk along the beach and view the tide pools full of sea life. Go horseback riding along the beach with Bandon Beach Riding Stables .

Bandon is known for its fishing, crabbing, and clamming, so why not try your hand at it while visiting? You can visit a local fishing shop to get supplies and training. If visiting in early September, check to see if the Cranberry Festival will be going on, where you could enjoy live entertainment, cranberry eating contests, dancing, artisans, and delicious food!

Stroll the streets of Old Town for shopping at unique boutiques, local shops, and art galleries or take a walk along the Coquille River boardwalk for fresh air and wild life viewing. View some local art at the Second Street Gallery or Art By the Sea.

Instead of wine tasting, go “sweets tasting” at The Cranberry Sweets & More Store . The store has a wide variety of selections, including Key Lime Tea cookies, Beer & Cider Candies, Cranberry Walnut fudge, and flavored jelly beans, popcorn, and toffee’s. If you prefer some ice cream or gourmet cheeses visit the Face Rock Creamery . Visit Tony’s Crab Shack for their crab sandwich or the Bandon Fish Market where you will find a wide selection of fish.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

With four miles of beach along the Pacific Ocean, Cannon Beach makes for the perfect sun and sand West Coast weekend girls’ trip getaway. Located on the coast of Oregon, this small seaside city is known for Haystack Rock and the nearby tidal pools, it’s section of the North Coast food tour, state parks, and shopping! For the outdoor enthusiast you can find hikes, biking, water sports, and Cannon Beach Walking Tours !

If your main reason for visiting Cannon Beach is the water, be sure to visit Ecola State Park . Your visit will start with a drive through the Ecola State Park rain forest that will take you to the beachfront with stunning views of Haystack Rock and the coastline. Within the park you can find hiking trails, views of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse , and spots for bird and whale watching. Throughout the park you can find plenty of tide pools full of sea life.

Many of Cannon Beach’s restaurants are featured on the North Coast Food Tour , including Ecola Seafoods, Sea Level Bakery, Public Coast Brewing, MacGregor’s Whiskey Bar and Restaurant, and even a cooking school, EVOO Cooking School , where you can learn to make a new tasty dish!

Although you won’t find any chain stores in Cannon Beach, you can find plenty of small, local specialty shops, boutiques, and galleries that the small city is well known for. You can find everything from regionally designed fashion, handcrafted jewelry, unique wines, and locally made art pieces. You will also find an old fashioned candy shop in town with taffy, hand dipped chocolate, and plenty of candy jars!

Olympic National Park, Washington

If your perfect idea of a West Coast weekend girls’ trip is a retreat into nature, Olympic National Park should be on your list of options! Olympic National Park, sitting on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State, is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from a rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and mountains, there is something for any outdoor lover to enjoy!

When visiting Olympic National Park, be sure to visit the Hoh Rain Forest to see stunning moss covered trees. Tracking down some of the largest trees in the country are worth the effort when visiting Olympic National Park. You can find the largest Sitka spruce in the country at 191 ft., the tallest Pacific silver fir at 220 ft., and the largest Douglas fir at 281 ft.

Spend the day at one of Olympic National Park’s beaches, such as Kalaloch Beach or Shi Shi Beach, for tide pool viewing, wild life viewing, high bluffs, and some stunning Pacific Ocean views. You can also find some water sports-kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding on Olympic National Park’s two lakes.

Olympic National Park has plenty of hiking options of all difficulties. For some easy hikes check out the Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Moss, Staircase Rapids Loop, or the Quinault Rain Forest Nature Trail. For some more difficult hikes check out the Grand Pass Trail, the Switchback Trail, or the Sunrise Ridge Trail. For waterfall chasers hike to Sol Duc Falls or Marymere Falls. Visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and soak in their three mineral hot springs pools.

You can expect to run into some wildlife while exploring the park, from deer and elk to cougars and bears. Throughout the park you will also find some spots along the The Whale Trail , where you may get lucky enough to spot these majestic creatures off the coast. For a unique and mesmerizing experience choose to camp overnight in the park. When the sun goes down the sky will come to life as billions of stars come aglow.

Astoria, Oregon

This small town situated at the mouth of the Columbia River is full of natural beauty, history, shopping, and fun! Begin your trip in Downtown Astoria, where you can find loads of local shops and breweries. Enjoy stunning views of the Columbia River along the Astoria Riverwalk as you walk past ports, lighthouses, ferries, and more!

For some stunning views of Astoria, climb to the top of the Astoria Column , a historic monument honoring the original settlers of the area. For some relaxation stroll the gardens, ponds, and statues at Garden of Surging Waves . If you are interested in the history of the area visit Fort Astoria or Fort Stevens State Park. A visit to the Astoria Sunday Market will have you enjoying hundreds of local vendors and tastes from around the world.

Visit the Clatsop Spit, an area of jagged black rocks along the beach known for its shipwrecks. Visit the Painted Lady Lavender Farm and stroll through fields of purple as far as the eye can see. Enjoy a secluded hike to Youngs River Falls.

If you and your girls are a fan of the Goonies, Astoria is home to many Goonies’ film locations , including the County Jail, bowling alley, Lower Columbia Bowl, Cannon Beach, many of the character homes, and more!

After a long day exploring visit the Astoria Aquatic Center to soak in some hot tubs. You can also find plenty of breweries to visit in Astoria, such as the Fort George Brewery or the Buoy Beer Company.

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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7 Comments »

What a great idea for the girls to do a getaway trip. A spa day in San Diego sounds exactly how I would want to start this trip. It would be fun to hit La Jolla and the sea lions all chilled out! National Parks and roaring surfs could then amp up the energy. We have always missed the San Juan Islands on our west coast trips. But the Friday Harbour Chocolates Tasting Room and wine tasting is a great reason not to miss them the next visit. Awesome stops for a girls trip.

My sister lives out in Portland. I don’t think she has done half the things you mentioned. I will have to go visit and check out these sights with her.

I’ve been meaning to take a weekend trip to Big Sur or Portland, but there are some awesome-sounding spots on this list that I hadn’t heard of, too! Looks like the West has some wonderful opportunities… might need more than a weekend!

Great ideas for weekends for moms who need relaxation and a moment of rest. I haven’t been to Joseph, Oregon, and the San Juan Islands, Washington yet, and would love to add to my list for next trip..

This is a fabulous list of West Coast trips! I love that you’re highlighting the need for Mom Breaks and getaways. We just don’t think of ourselves often enough, do we?

As a West coast girl, I’m always looking for new weekend trips, there’s a couple here I haven’t done!

Sad to see that Seattle didn’t make the list. 🙁 I petsit there frequently and I never run out of things to do and see. But the other Washington state destinations are spot on fabulous choices! Thanks for the list!

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30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe

Posted on Published: January 31, 2023  - Last updated: December 18, 2023

Ready for an epic road trip adventure through the American west? From amazing coastal views to stunning national parks, the western part of the USA has some truly unbelievable landscapes. If you’re looking for the best west coast road trip – here’s 30 routes you’ll absolutely love.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely drive over a long weekend or plan an amazing adventure covering a lot of ground over 2 weeks, this list has a bit of everything.

Visit charming towns along the California and Oregon coast. Go hiking in the national parks out west and catch views of dramatic landscapes. Rugged coasts, dense forests, wide open spaces and outta-this-world desert scenes, you’re about to find your perfect road trip out west in this guide .

Let’s dive in!

Must-see video: west coast road trips

West coast road trip map

This map includes highlights of some of the destinations on the west coast road trip itineraries below. Check out the full guide on each destination below!

Oh and by the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve called in some help from some fellow travel writers to create these epic itineraries. Enjoy!

Essentials for your Road Trip USA west coast

Before we dive into the list of awesome road trips, make sure you’re prepared by packing the right gear. Here are some suggestions to make your road trip go smoothly.

• Collapsable cooler. Perfect for if you’re flying to a destination for a road trip, or just to store when you’re not using it. A collapsable cooler keeps your drinks and food cool, too.
• Appropriate clothing for weather. From tank tops to a winter coat, be sure to check the weather before you go and take the appropriate layers. If you’re hiking, this is my favorite medium hiking coat , rain jacket and sun hat .
• Emergency items like satellite communicator and first aid kit . We all think it will never happen to us – until it does! This 2-way satellite communicator comes with me on all road trips and hiking adventures. Take this first aid kit for your car or pack it for day hikes.

• GoPro. Capture the best photos and videos of the road (while another adult is driving) or take it for underwater adventures and swimming. This GoPro goes with me on every trip!
• Reusable water bottles. Pack one or two for each person to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles. Refill at restaurants, hotels and clean water stations at national parks.
• Right hiking gear. If you’re visiting any of the national parks in the west and stepping foot out of your car, you’ll want the right gear to be comfortable. These are my favorite hiking shoes , hiking socks , trekking poles and hiking backpack that accompany me to any hiking destination.

By the way, if you’ll need to rent a car for this adventure, try searching Discover Cars first. It’s free to use, the site searches the major car companies and I typically save 10-30% using Discover Cars .

US west coast road trip

Gahhh! I’m so excited for you! Epic adventures await on a west coast road trip. Starting off with a few of my favorites…

1. Oregon Coast road trip

Distance: 745 miles Recommended time: 5-10 days Best time of year: May through October

The Oregon Coast is perfect for road trips, with 363-miles of stunning coastlines and more than 15 not-to-be missed towns.

It’s perfect for a choose-your-own-adventure kind of trip, to accommodate your interests and the amount of time you have to spare. But if you have some flexibility, you could easily spend a week and a half exploring the coastline.

Start your trip in Portland and make your way to the northern portion of the Oregon coast. Cannon Beach should absolutely be on your bucketlist, home to the iconic sea stack, Haystack Rock. Here, you can explore tidepools, keep a lookout for puffins in the summertime, and have a bonfire right on the sand. 

Making your way south, stop at Pacific City Beach, which offers sweeping sand dunes and epic rock formations at Cape Kiwanda . If you’re brave, this is an excellent spot to take on the chilly Pacific waves at a surf lesson- it’s one of the most popular places along the coast to catch a wave!

Continuing south, the town of Florence has a charming historic downtown, with ice cream parlors and salt-water taffy stores. Florence is also home to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , a 40-mile stretch of rolling sand dunes that has earned the town the name “Sandboarding Capital of the World.”

At the southern tip of the Oregon Coast, you’ll find the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor in Brookings. This recreation area has rugged sea stacks, secluded beaches, and some of the most jaw-dropping vistas you’ll find on the West Coast.

Finally, make your way back to Portland, completing the 745-mile loop around the western portion of the state.

Summer is absolutely the best time to head to the Oregon Coast , thanks to the pleasant weather and clear skies. If you want to avoid the crowds, though, early fall (late September and early October) can be a good time to get most of the attractions to yourself and snag some decent deals on accommodations.

The Oregon Coast from Portland is certainly worthy of being on this list: road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

2. Pacific Coast Highway road trip: San Francisco to San Diego

Distance: 615+ miles Recommended time: 3-10 days Best time of year: November through April

You’ll want to keep this west coast road trip itinerary! The drive from San Francisco to San Diego, California is absolutely stunning.

From the rugged, untouched coast of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Southern California and charming towns in between, this is a bucket list road trip, for sure!

Fly into San Francisco and rent a car , drive the coast and fly back out of San Diego. You can do this trip in as little as 3 days, but 7-10 days is recommended.

There are over 30 fabulous stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip , so you’ll never run out of things to do.

Starting in San Francisco, be sure to visit the Golden Gate Bridge and hike the Land’s End Trail for spectacular views of the bay. Next up is Monterey, where you can shop and dine in the historic Cannery Row, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium .

There are plenty of things to do with kids in Monterey too, making this road trip option one of the best on this list for families.

A must-see along this US west coast road trip is Carmel-by-the-Sea. Charming architecture met with great beaches, this is a fun stop. This is a great spot for an overnight stay , because Big Sur is next and there’s not very many accommodations for a few hundred miles.

Fill up on gas in Carmel-by-the-Sea before hitting the road to Big Sur. This undeveloped stretch of land is where cliffs meet the ocean, where whale watching, sea lions and sea otters are prominent nearly year round.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur that every vacation style will love this region. Be sure to stop by the Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach.

As you make your way through Southern California, the charming towns of San Luis Obispo and Solvang make way for Malibu, Huntington Beach, La Jolla and finally to San Diego.

Ideally, you could spend 2 days in San Diego , visiting the highlight including Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego , the Gaslamp District and Coronado Beach.

This fun-filled road trip can be done any time of year. The Big Sur coast sees a lot of marine fog during the summer and early fall months, so winter and spring are the best times for views and the fewer crowds.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

3. Washington National Parks

Distance: 600+ miles Recommended time: 7 – 14 days Best time of year: June through September

If you’re looking to see some of the most beautiful views on the western part of the United States, then a Washington state national parks road trip is a must!

On this trip, you’ll see the sites and hear the sounds of Mount Rainier, Olympic and North Cascades National Parks, as well as see the Rainy City, Seattle.

Start the road trip in Mount Rainier, hit Olympic second, and then make your way towards North Cascades for a long , but totally worth it road trip. 

This trip can quickly become over 600 miles, so it’s recommended to have at least a week to complete it, but having 10 to 14 days is more ideal.

Starting in Mount Rainier, it’s a must to visit the Paradise area of the park, and spend some time hiking the trails, such as the Skyline Trail . The Nisqually Vista trail is one of the best beginner trails in the state.

After you’ve spent time enjoying the best things to do in Mt Rainier National Park , head north towards Olympic National Park. Start your visit on the western half, along the Pacific Coast. Visit Ruby and Rialto Beaches before heading to Hurricane Ridge.

From here, drive out of the park and stop in Seattle before the last leg of the trip. Spending just one day in Seattle , you can see the highlights like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture and the Olympic Sculpture Park. Be sure to take one of the Pike Place Market food tours while you’re in town!

North Cascades is your final destination, where you’ll be greeted with towering peaks. See the fabulous Diablo Lake and Washington Pass Overlook. Embark on the Maple Pass Hike or to Blue Lake.

Because this Washington road trip is through many mountains, it’s best done in the summer, as many roads close in the winter.

If you’re flying in, it’s best to fly into Seattle and then rent a car there. And don’t forget your America the Beautiful parks pass , as you’ll get good use out of it on this trip!

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

4. Anchorage to Seward, Alaska (one of the most scenic on this list of road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 125 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: April through September

The drive from Anchorage to Seward Alaska is arguably among the most beautiful stretches of road in the USA. On a map the distance between these two cities is just 125 miles, but with all the stunning views and beautiful places along the way it takes much longer than 2 hours to drive.

This road trip follows the Old Seward Highway which traces Turnagain Arm, a waterway that forms the northern boundary of the Cook Inlet off of the Gulf of Alaska.

On one side of the road is deep blue water with snow-capped mountains in the distance and on the other side are the stunning forest-covered Chugach Mountains with endless hiking trails to explore. Beluga whales can be spotted along this section from July through August.

Once you reach the town of Portage, the highway crosses onto the Kenai Peninsula, where the small harbor town of Seward is located. Here you will find Kenai Fjord National Park , which is accessible by both land and water. By land, hike up to Exit Glacier or, by water, spend a day on a glacier cruise into the park.

Other great places to stop on this road trip from Anchorage to Seward include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the Alyeska aerial tram in Girdwood and a boat ride to Portage Glacier in Portage.

This road trip is best in the warmer months, from April through September. Beginning in October, many businesses and tours begin shutting down for the season. Seward is a charming town to stay in with many lodging options ranging from hotels, quaint cabins by the water and bed and breakfasts.

This Alaskan adventure is undoubtedly one of the best west coast road trip itineraries!

Recommended by Susan of This Big Wild World

5. Arizona road trip: Phoenix to Tucson

Distance: 110+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

This US west coast road trip is based in Arizona, and you’re certainly in for a treat!

While Phoenix may be the official capital of Arizona, Tucson is the outdoor hub of the state. One hundred and twelve miles to the southeast of Phoenix, Tucson’s surrounded by mountains, saguaros and the only National Park protecting the sacred Saguaros – Saguaro National Park. 

The drive on Interstate 10 isn’t much to write home about, but when you begin to close in on the Tucson City limits, the fun begins. You’ll first reach the western half of Saguaro National Park, a pristine landscape covered in cacti.

This part is geared toward photographers and those without the need for handholding. It’s best viewed at sunset when Arizona’s famed skies put on a show.

After sunset, continue into the city for delicious Mexican food and your lodging. The following day you can explore Tucson , drive the 50 minutes up to Mt Lemmon, a 9,000+ foot goliath casting its shadow over Tucson, or head to the eastern end of town for the second half of Saguaro National Park.

If you choose the park, know it’s more developed, mountainous (trails go as high as 8,000+ feet), and has a visitor center. The eastern part is perfect for families and those looking for a moderate day hike. The main area isn’t large but offers a nice loop drive with various trailheads to start your walks.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months and looking to escape the heat, Mt. Lemmon is your best friend. On average, the top of the mountain offers visitors a 22-degree reprieve from the heat below . Here, you’ll find miles and miles of hiking and mountain biking.

After your adventure, stop by the famous Cookie Cabin for delicious pizza and an even more tasty Pizookie. Then, on your way down, stop by Windy Point and take in the sunset. Tucson’s known for putting on the best sky magic in the southwest. 

Lastly, be careful while driving on Mt. Lemmon’s scenic byway. It’s curvy and a favorite of cyclists in the area. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

6. San Francisco to Yosemite (iconic west coast road trip route)

Distance: 212 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

Visiting Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular weekend trips from San Francisco, and is a fantastic option for one of the best west coast road trips itineraries!

A scenic road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite is the best way to enjoy the area. The most scenic route to  Yosemite from San Francisco  takes CA-99 S and CA-140 E and goes through the towns of Merced, Mariposa, and Midpines to the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite National Park. 

The distance between San Francisco and Yosemite NP via this scenic route is just over 200 miles, and the average driving time is about 4.5 hours. 

However, making stops in Merced, Mariposa and Midpines on the way to Yosemite is a must-do. Therefore, choose to spend an extended weekend in Yosemite instead of a weekend.

Merced, called the “Gateway to Yosemite’, is about 130 miles away from San Francisco. Make a stop in Merced and do wine tasting at Vista Ranch , see the historic Merced County Courthouse Museum and visit the fabulous Merced Antique Mall. 

After a break in Merced, head to Mariposa, only 37 miles from Merced. The town Mariposa is such a charming Gold Rush town.

You might enjoy staying overnight in Mariposa . Choose a 2-hour zipline adventure at Yosemite Ziplines & Adventure Ranch from the mountain in Polaris Rangers to Downtown Mariposa. Afterward, indulge in delicious bites at Charles Street Dinner House and explore fantastic Mariposa wineries like Casto Oaks Fine Wine and Art and the Butterfly Creek Winery.

Continue to Yosemite after Mariposa, but make a break in Midpines, which is only 12 mi southwest of El Portal in Yosemite. Midpines is a lovely place for picnicking, swimming, rafting and fishing.

After Midpines, head to Yosemite. The stylish Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite is in Buck Meadows and on the way from Midpines to Yosemite Valley. Check-in at your room and start exploring the marvelous Yosemite National Park.

El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point viewpoint, Fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias await you! 

The best time to visit Yosemite is from May to September. 

Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector 

7. Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon

Distance: 726 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: spring or fall

One of the best road trips in the western USA is  Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon . Because Las Vegas airport has so many connections and fairly cheap flights, many people like to fly into Las Vegas and explore from there.

This road trip starts in Vegas and explores some of the amazing destinations northern Arizona and southern Utah has to offer.

You can do this road trip as a loop, or as a there-and-back trip. Starting out at Vegas head west towards Flagstaff and along the way you can stop off and enjoy Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Kingman Arizona.

From Flagstaff head north towards the Grand Canyon, one of the best stops on this road trip. After checking out the Grand Canyon, head north to Page, Arizona, which is a great stop-over city to spend the night.

The next morning head out to explore all the best sights near Page, such as Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. After touring these incredible places, you can start heading towards Zion National Park.

After hiking some incredible trails inside the park, grab a hotel room in Springdale , just outside Zion. The next day head out back towards Las Vegas, while stopping at Valley of Fire State Park on your way back.

Of course you can spend longer at any of these destinations, but if you’re short on time this road trip can be done in 3 days . 

The best time to do this road trip is in spring or fall. In the summer it can be incredibly hot in this part of the country. Zion in particular is one of the best national parks to visit in May , if you can arrange for it.

The winter is a great option if you really want to avoid the crowds, but some trails and roads could be closed so keep that in mind. Don’t forget to buy your Antelope Canyon tickets in advance, as they sell out really fast.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

8. Utah national parks road trip

Distance: 878+ miles Recommended time: 5 – 14 days Best time of year: anytime

One of the best American west coast road trip adventures is through the Mighty 5 in Utah. A stunning display of nature and endless views greet you on a Utah national parks road trip .

It’s best to start this road trip by flying into Salt Lake City and departing from Las Vegas. Rent a car, RV or camper van to explore these amazing national parks.

From Salt Lake City, travel about 4 hours to Moab. There, you’ll have access to Arches and Canyonlands National Park. Ideally, you’d have a few days to explore each park. But you can see quite a bit with just one day in Arches National Park .

Hike to Delicate Arch, the most famous arch in the world! Visit the Devil’s Playground, where you’ll see multiple arches in a short distance. The last major stop within the park is The Windows, where you see the huge Double Arch.

Canyonlands National Park has expansive views with many overlooks and hiking trails. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short walk to an arch overlooking the canyon, and perfect for a sunrise adventure. Be sure to check out the views at Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and White Rim Overlook.

The journey to Capital Reef is a fun drive along Utah Scenic Byway 24. Once there, be sure to check out the Fruita Historic District, Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail and take the Capitol Reef Scenic Drive.

For out-of-this-world views, you’ll love Bryce Canyon National Park. Check out the viewpoints at Inspiration Point and Bryce Point. This park has a shuttle system that’s convenient and prevents congestion within the park.

Be sure to take the shuttle to Sunrise Point, where you can start a phenomenal 3.2 mile hike, the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop . Walk through the funky hoodoos into the base of the amphitheater. So fun!

The last park on this US west coast road trip is Zion. This is one of the most visited national parks in the USA, and for good reason! Massive canyon views surround you throughout the park.

Take the Zion shuttle to hike The Narrows, or apply for a permit to hike Angels Landing . For a low-key trip to Zion with kids , you could hike the Canyon Overlook Trail, Emerald Pools or Pa’rus Trail.

After your visit to the Mighty 5 in Utah, take the 2.5 hour drive to Las Vegas. Fly out directly or spend a day or two exploring Vegas and the area’s many attractions.

Want to see more of Las Vegas? Check out what you must do in Vegas for first timers .

9. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone (perfect US west coast road trip)

Distance: 321+ miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through September

Salt Lake City is a beautiful place to start your road trip to Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains, breathtaking views will greet you from the get-go.

The drive from Salt Lake City to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park is 321 miles and takes 5 hours to drive via I-15N. It’s one of the best west coast road trips USA!

If you’d prefer a more scenic route, consider taking a longer trip to the south entrance of the park through Jackson, Wyoming, via Highway 89. This longer loop (SLC to Yellowstone and back to SLC) includes 12 hours of road time, covering 734 miles.

Whether you have a few days to spare or all week, take this trip at your own pace.

The scenic drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone detours through Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Jackson is a popular ski resort and has a charming wild west feel to the town.

If you’re looking for lodging in Jackson, consider staying at Elk County Inn , Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole or at The Lodge at Jackson Hole .

Grand Teton National Park is just miles away from Jackson. The beautiful park features amazing hiking trails and scenic views, including Inspiration Point Grand Teton . Most known for its beautiful mountains, the Teton Range is famous for its sharp peaks.

Once you’ve made your way to Yellowstone, best places to stay in Yellowstone are limited. Old Faithful Lodge and Cabins, Canyon Lodge and Cabins, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are great options for lodging. Keep in mind West Yellowstone and Gardiner are also great nearby areas to stay.

Most of the roads and amenities in Yellowstone are closed through May in the Tetons and in the park. May is a great time to visit because it’s less crowded, but most of the park, including the most popular attractions, is open.

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger 

10. Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop

Distance: 530 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: June through September

Starting in  Salem  or Portland, you can easily visit the wide range of Oregon’s diverse terrain in a short time. This Oregon Highlights loop can be completed in less than 11 hours (530 miles) of driving time. 

You’ll want to spend a minimum of 3 days on this road trip, though it’s best enjoyed over a full week, or even longer.

While the trip can be enjoyed all year round, you may sometimes need chains or snow tires to drive through the mountain pass in winter. For the best road tripping weather in Oregon, aim for June through September. 

First, spend as much time as you want in Oregon’s largest cities – Portland or Salem, where you’ll find tasty eateries, urban hikes and cute shopping streets. 

Next, head East on I-84 through the impressive Colombia River Gorge with its many waterfalls, on your way to the trendy windsurfing town of Hood River. 

You can pick up treats from local apple farms as you head South through Mt. Hood National Forest and drive by snow-capped mountain peaks on your way to Central Oregon.

After enjoying your favorite outdoor adventure activities in the high desert, make your way back over the mountain range to Silver Falls State Park . This is where you can see 10 waterfalls on one trail – and even walk behind a few of the falls! 

Continue back into the Willamette Valley. Explore Oregon wine country around McMinnville, Oregon, taking your pick of scenic vineyards for wine tasting.

Then, continue West just 1 hour to reach the rugged Oregon Coast. You can climb the dunes at Pacific City and grab some crispy fish and chips. Make a final stop at the Tillamook Cheese factory on your way back to Salem or Portland.

Recommended by Michelle of Intentional Travelers

Can you believe this list?! Not even half done, there’s way more ideas to build your perfect west coast road trip itinerary coming right up!

11. Death Valley to Yosemite (find adventure with this road trip USA west coast route)

Distance: 319 miles Recommended time: 2-3 days Best time of year: September or October

The drive between Death Valley and Yosemite is an epic adventure through some of America’s most iconic national parks, and it’s one of the best west coast road trips!

The 2 parks have their own distinct personalities — Death Valley National Park is a desert expanse with hundreds of mountain ranges and some of the lowest elevation points in North America, and Yosemite National Park is filled with granite cliffs and waterfalls that provide majestic landscapes.

Start your trip at Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. You can stop along Highway 190 as it passes through Furnace Creek, but plan on stopping near Zabriskie Point for sunset views of the surrounding mountains and valley floor.

Then head north towards Mono Lake and stay overnight in Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes . End your trip in Yosemite Valley after driving through Tioga Road in Yosemite.

The drive from Badwater Basin to Yosemite Valley is 319 miles and takes 6 to 6.5 hours non-stop. You can finish the road trip within a day but it’s recommended to spend at least 2-3 days exploring the parks and in between.

Highlights of this road trip include Lone Pine, Crowley Lake and Mammoth Lakes.

The best places to stay are inside Death Valley National Park and Yosemite National Park so you’ll get more time to explore the park. Since Tioga Road is closed from November through May and Death Valley gets scorching hot during the summer, the best time to do the road trip is in the fall. 

Recommended by Rasika of Bae Area And Beyond

12. Road to Hana, Maui

Distance: 52 miles Recommended time: 1- 2 days Best time of year: anytime

When you think of Hawaii, a road trip may not come to mind but driving the  Road to Hana  on Maui is one of the best ways to experience this island. The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the eastern side of the island to the town of Hana. 

While obviously not located in the Continental US, it’s a must-see on this list of best road trip USA west coast!

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one lane bridges, hairpin turns and curves. This road trip will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas before you embark on this journey.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, pristine beaches and through lush rainforest. Some highlights of this drive include Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, the awe inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park, Wailua Falls and Haleakala National Park.

Most people drive the Road to Hana and back in the same day but if time allows, stay the night in Hana town . If you stay at the  Hana Maui Resort  you’re in for a real treat.

This will give you a full day to experience the Road to Hana and to not feel rushed on the way back. Plus it’s not the most enjoyable drive at night on a narrow, winding cliffside road.

Since we are talking about Hawaii, you can road trip the Road to Hana anytime of the year. Just avoid this journey during heavy rains as flash floods can happen in the blink of an eye and parts of the road can get swept away.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit, water shoes and pack a lightweight towel because pulling off the side of the road to swim under a waterfall is the name of the game. Buckle up, enjoy the ride and prepare for a road trip of a lifetime.

Recommended by Jess of I’m Jess Traveling 

13. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

Distance: 323 Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: June through October

A road trip from the San Francisco Bay Area to Lake Tahoe is filled with gorgeous vistas and plenty of amazing things to do!

This road trip is 323 miles and can be done in only 2 days, but do yourself a favor and spend a few more to really soak up the beauty of the area! A road trip to Lake Tahoe can be completed in any season of the year, however summer or fall is recommended to avoid possible road closures due to snow.

Departing from San Francisco, travelers should head east on Highway 80 through Donner Pass, Truckee and then Tahoe City on the lake. 

Driving around the full length of Lake Tahoe is 72 miles of pure beauty. In summer, there are  many swimming beaches  such as Kings Beach, Zephyr and Sugar Pine Point Beach. 

The Tahoe East Shore Bike Trail is a 3 mile long paved path that runs from Incline Village to Sand Harbor either on bike or on foot. Many other hiking trails also provide a break from being in the car, such as Eagle Rock or down to Emerald Bay.

Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa and Hotel Azure Tahoe are both wonderful choices for lodging due to their lakefront locations, incredible views and lovely rooms.

After circling the lake, visitors are in for a fun day of adventure in Virginia City . This old silver mining town is filled with old saloons selling sarsaparillas, tours of underground mines and old schoolhouses, wooden sidewalks and plenty of cute shops. 

This Lake Tahoe road trip can end by taking an easy flight out of the Reno airport or travelers can head back on the scenic Highway 50 for another route back toward the Bay Area. No matter which route you choose, your San Francisco to Lake Tahoe adventure is sure to be one of the best west coast road trips!

Recommended by Sierra of Island and Alpine

14. Grand Teton to Glacier National Park (amazing sights on this road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 500+ miles Recommended time: 10 – 14 days Best time of year: August or September

The next road trip USA west coast is a must-see! A Wyoming and Montana road trip from Grand Tetons National Park to Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park is a great way to take in some of the most scenic and wild places in America.

At Grand Teton National Park, you’ll see the Teton Mountains, considered one of the most beautiful stretches anywhere in the Rockies.   Must-see in Grand Teton include Inspiration Point, Jackson Lake Beach and the Hike to Taggart Lake.

These parks are so amazing in late summer and early fall, Grand Teton made the list of one of the best places to visit in August in the US.

In Yellowstone, you’ll see some of the most famous landmarks in the country: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The wildlife, wide open spaces and scenic views are simply incredible.

And finally, in Glacier, you’ll see the park’s namesake glaciers, along with big horn sheep and, depending on the season, one of the most famous drives in America: the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Don’t miss the beautiful waterfalls in Glacier National Park , including Virginia Falls, Saint Mary Falls, Baring Falls and more.

You can start by basing yourself in Jackson, Wyoming, then move on to West Yellowstone, Montana, and end your trip in Whitefish, Montana. 

The trip is over 500 miles from start to finish, however, plan on putting many more miles than that on your car as you explore the parks. 

If you rent a car , you can fly into Jackson and fly out of Kalispell. Just make sure you get a car with unlimited miles!

Timing this road trip is the real challenge, as these parks are remarkably different from season to season.  

This trip is perfect for a shoulder season road trip since you’ll find smaller crowds in May and September than in the summer. 

However, watch for seasonal closures, as some of the highlights of the parks (especially Glacier) are only open in the late summer. If you want to be able to experience all of the best sites at each park, plan your trip for August or the first half of September and book early! 

While these parks can technically be visited in winter, highway closures combined with heavily restricted park access make these a winter destination for those with a true sense of adventure (and an ability to be flexible!).

Ten days is enough to get the highlights of each park, but, if you can spring for 2 full weeks, you won’t regret it! If you do end up with more time, you can even see more of the  National Park Sites in Montana  or Wyoming.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

15. Kauai road trip

Distance: 80 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: anytime

While not in the continental US, this is absolutely one of the best west coast road trips!

Home to the jaw-dropping NaPali Coast, you can’t actually circle the whole island via car, but you can drive most of the perimeter. This road trip takes you around as much of the island as you can drive from north, to south, then west and back north again.

Starting in Princeville, Hawaii on the north shore of Kauai, visit the famous Hanalei Pier , an iconic place in Kauai. Go snorkeling on Anini Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai . You’ll want to spend at least one day exploring the north shore, or more if you have the time.

Next stop is Kapaa, this eclectic beach town perfect for smoothies and swimming. Be sure to stop at Java Kai, one of the best places to eat in Kauai . Later that day, make your way south to Koloa.

Famous for Poipu Beach, this is typically the sunniest and driest part of the island. Visit Shipwreck Beach and hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail , where you’ll see the stunning southern coastline.

On your 3rd day touring the island, you’re in for a real treat! Drive about an hour northwest to the Waimea Canyon State Park. Also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the Waimea Canyon is a stunning, multicolored canyon and a must-see in Kauai.

There, you can spend some time at the overlooks or hike the Waimea Canyon Trail , which takes you into the canyon to a lush waterfall. So fun!

After seeing the Waimea Canyon, you’ll want to head to Koke’e State Park to witness the stunning NaPali Coast . Visit the Kalalau Lookout or Pu’u O Kila Lookout for amazing views of the rugged coastline. If you’re prepared with hiking boots and trekking poles , hike the Pihea Trail for even more views of the NaPali Coast.

This epic Kauai vacation and road trip around the island can be done anytime of year. You’ll want to spend as many days in Kauai as possible to experience the magic of the island, but at minimum 3 days and 4 nights to complete this road trip.

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

16. Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria

Distance: 275 miles Recommended time: 4+ days Best time of year: spring and summer

One of the best road trips in the western U.S. hits 3 of the best cities in the Pacific Northwest: Portland, Astoria and Seattle.

The entire route is only 275 miles and about 5 hours if you drive straight through. But you’ll want to spend 2-3 nights in each stop to enjoy each of these wonderful spots and their surroundings. This PNW road trip is the perfect combination of beautiful scenery, history, bucket list attractions and great food.

In Portland, stay at the Hyatt Centric and you’ll be in walking distance to Pioneer Courthouse Square, as well as some great restaurants. The City of Roses is one of the best food cities in America after all.

Make sure to eat some of the  famous foods of Portland  like a Voodoo Doughnut and local charcuterie from Olympic Provisions. If you have the time, a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge is worth an excursion.

Drive to Astoria via route 26. It’s worth the 5 extra minutes on your 2 hour trip for the scenery. The best part is you’ll see the northern Oregon Coast. Stop at Ecola State Park for stunning views of Cannon Beach.

When you arrive in Astoria on the Columbia River, stay at the Bowline Hotel . Spring for a riverfront room where you’ll have gorgeous views from your balcony. Stroll the Riverwalk, admire the Victorian architecture, and explore the historic gems of the Lewis and Clark expedition. 

When leaving Astoria, go across the Astor-Megler Bridge to follow the 101 to Seattle. This large port city has lots of museums, gardens, and coffee shops.

Although it’s touristy, go to the top of the Space Needle for incredible vistas and explore Pike’s Place Market to see whole fish being tossed back and forth at the fish markets. 

This American west road trip offers classic views of the ocean and the moody coastline. Plus it’s a road trip you won’t soon forget!

Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise

17. Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona (epic adventure: road trip USA west coast)

Distance: 850+ miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: March through May

Start and end this  epic 7 day southwest road trip loop  in Las Vegas. You’ll see 12 amazing natural features, including 4 national parks, and one modern engineering marvel. Not to mention any extra days spent exploring Vegas at the beginning or end of your trip!

Begin with a day trip out to Death Valley National Park. Return to Vegas for the night.

Next, explore the beauty of Red Rock Canyon scenic drive , a national recreation area in the morning and the fiery red swirls of Valley of Fire State Park in the afternoon. Drive to St George, Utah to spend the night.

Enjoy the next 2 days exploring Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks . Both have stunning hikes and views. Continue on to Page, Arizona.

Spend a day in this area visiting photogenic Horseshoe Bend, touring Antelope Canyon and paddling or hiking around Lake Powell.

Next, explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim in just a day . Take the scenic drive in from the east entrance and end the day at Mather Point viewpoint for stunning sunset views. Drive to Flagstaff, Arizona to overnight.

A quick morning visit to Walnut Canyon National Monument is worth it to see ancient cliff dwellings up close and personal. Then get on the road and drive to Hoover Dam, gaining an hour as it operates on PST, arriving in time to catch one of the afternoon Dam Tours.

Back in Vegas, use the evening to explore or catch a show!

Spring is the ideal season for this road trip. You’ll avoid the extreme heat of summer but also miss most of the snow and reduced winter hours at the higher elevation parks.

An America the Beautiful National Park Pass will save you hundreds of dollars on this road trip itinerary. It pays for itself several times over in just a week, and it’s valid for a year.

This amazing western USA road trip is busy and covers a lot of ground! If you can expand your time to 2 weeks, you take take a more leisurely pace.

Recommended by Rachel of Means to Explore

18. Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes, California

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 4-5 days Best time of year: spring or fall

Take an amazing American west coast road trip full of outdoor adventures in the Eastern Sierras from Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes!

The drive north along US-395 is approximately 200 miles and takes about 4 hours straight through, but it’s definitely worth taking at least 4 or 5 days to fully explore all the areas along the way.

Start your road trip in Death Valley National Park , located along the border of Nevada and California. Death Valley is home to the highest recorded air temperature on earth, as well as the lowest point in North America at Badwater Basin.

Head from Death Valley to the town of Lone Pine, which is famous for being home to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental US. You’ll need a permit to hike Mt. Whitney , but if you’re lucky enough to snag one, standing on the 14,505 foot summit is a truly incredible feeling. If you just want a view of Mt. Whitney, camp in the Alabama Hills for a truly spectacular sight of the Sierra Nevada.

After you come down from that high, drive north to Bishop and partake in your favorite outdoor pursuit . This mountain town is home to plenty of hiking trails, mountain biking trails and rock climbing crags.

Finally, make your way to Mammoth Lakes where you can continue your outdoor adventures or take a break and soak in some of the many nearby hot springs . Be sure to check out the Crab Cooker if you like it hot! And say cheers to your epic road trip with a local beer at Mammoth Brewery.

Recommended by Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

19. Alaska Highway (amazing idea for west coast road trips)

Distance: up to 1,390 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: May through September

Are you looking for an epic road trip USA west coast? Look no further than the Alaska Highway! Stretching 1,390 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska, this highway will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Canada and Alaska.

To get to the Alaska Highway (Alcan), you’ll need to take one of two ways to get to Dawson Creek: either up Icefield Parkway ( Banff to Jasper National Park ), or through British Columbia down the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Perhaps take one there and the other on your way back home!

When planning your road trip on the Alaska Highway, it’s important to consider how much time you want to spend on the road and where you want to stop along the way.

The highway can be completed in as few as 3 days, but that will feel very rushed. Even spending at least a week along the Alcan highway will feel too fast if you’re fully taking advantage of everything this incredible journey has to offer. 

While the Alaska Highway winds through some of the snowiest parts of the world, the road is open and maintained all year long. However, this amazing west coast road trip is best between May to September.

From wildlife viewing opportunities and breathtaking mountains, to roadside attractions like Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, there is something for everyone along the Alcan Highway. 

There are plenty of national parks, provincial parks and free remote camping spots along the way, as well as small hotels and inns in even the smallest of towns. Do keep in mind that peak season along the Alaska Highway is short and things book up fast, so the earlier you make reservations the better!

Recommended by Chris & Sara of Chris and Sara

20. Southern California road trip: Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego

Distance:  408 miles Recommended time:  4 days Best time of year:  spring or fall

If you’re looking for a Southern California sampler, this 4-day road trip itinerary is for you! On this looped route, you’ll see the best of Southern California including Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park, and San Diego for some city, desert and beach time!

Whether you’re traveling to Southern California as a couple, solo, with young kids or even exploring LA with teens , you’re going to love this road trip!

Because this route is a loop, you can easily start from Los Angeles or San Diego depending on where you can secure the cheapest flights. Spring and fall are the best times to visit all 3 destinations because of great weather and fewer crowds.

In Los Angeles, you’ll want to stay at least 2 full days to get a good taste of the city. 

First, visit the downtown LA area where at Grand Central Market, you can try many local favorites including strawberry donuts from The Donut Man and Mexican sweet and spicy fruit cups at La Frutería.

Also nearby is Angel’s Flight Railway, the Last Bookstore and the iconic Bradbury Building.

On your second day in LA, be sure to visit Griffith Observatory, which has great views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA. If you prefer another museum, the Getty is one of the best art museums in the city, or instead opt for a half day at the Santa Monica Pier to ride the ferris wheel at Pacific Park.

In Los Angeles, stay in Burbank for a more quiet location, or Silver Lake to be right next to the action downtown!

Next, take a  day trip to Joshua Tree National Park . 

Check out Barker Dam Nature Trail with authentic petroglyphs, Keys View for a one-of-a-kind view of ecosystems colliding, hike Lost Horse Mine Trail Loop to learn about the Western mining history in the park, and finally visit Cholla Cactus Garden with plants that you can only see here.

Joshua Tree has some phenomenal camping or check out the many unique vacation rentals nearby including those that look like spaceships!

San Diego is the final stop on this loop (or maybe first for you depending where you flew into). 

You can see the highlights of San Diego in one day including Balboa Park where there are over 20 local museums and gardens, the historic Gaslamp Quarter with a vibrant nightlife scene, and Cabrillo National Monument where you can explore the Point Loma Tide Pools and maybe spot some sea lion!

Be sure to check out the best things to do in Old Town San Diego as well, including the birthplace of California.

In San Diego, stay along the marina or near the Gaslamp Quarter for the most central location. The Horton Grand Hotel is a great affordable option with a beautiful courtyard!

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

More ideas for a west coast road trip

This final 1/3 of the list we’ll hit more of the west coast states, including Washington, California, Oregon and many more. Let’s keep going!

21. Denver to Moab

Distance: 348 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This is an American west coast road trip that offers a variety of views from the stunning Rocky Mountains to the desert landscapes in Utah.

Starting in Denver, Colorado, spend a day enjoying the city sights like Union Station, 16th Street Mall and the Denver Art Museum. From there, hit Interstate 70 through the gorgeous Rocky Mountains.

So many charming mountain towns greet you along the way. Be sure to stop and see lake Dillon, and Sapphire Point Overlook which is stunning, particularly in the summer sun.

Next stop by Vail for shopping and dining. This 4-season town is great for skiing in the winter, hiking and biking in the spring, summer and fall. Stay overnight at the Lodge at Lionshead to break up the long drive on this Denver to Moab road trip .

The next day, you’ll drive through more of the Rocky Mountains and Glenwood Canyon out to western Colorado. Swim at the world’s largest mineral hot springs in Glenwood Springs or grab lunch in the charming downtown.

On your way out of Colorado be sure to visit the Colorado National Monument, where this scenic drive provides hiking opportunities and the last of the dramatic landscape in Colorado.

Hop off I-70 and take the scenic highway 128 in Utah. Drive through rocky red desert scenes along the Colorado River to Moab.

Once in Moab, take a day or more to hike in Arches National Park and see the sights of Canyonlands National Park. From there, take a long day’s drive back to Denver, or go through the Mighty 5 in Utah and fly out of Las Vegas.

22. San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR (one of the most underrated road trips USA west coast)

Distance: 625 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: May through October

Taking a  Pacific Coast road trip  is a bucket list experience, and one of the most beautiful stretches is between San Francisco, California and Newport, Oregon.

Start to finish is about 625 miles and will take approximately 14 hours, so allow at least 3 days for this road trip. North of San Francisco, catch CA-1 and stop at Point Reyes National Seashore. It’s a great place to spot gray whales and elephant seals in the spring.

As you continue north, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Once you reach Mendocino, take some time to explore this charming coastal town. Enjoy the best Mendocino restaurants , Glass Beach, botanical garden and so much more.

Pick up Highway 101 when CA-1 ends in Leggett. When it’s time to stop for the night, you can camp at Sue-Meg State Park in Trinidad. It’s a verdant park with easy access to oceanfront trails.

Get an early start the next day, because you’re in redwoods territory. Plan to do some hiking in Redwoods National and State Parks. Since there are multiple parks, stop at the visitor center for maps and advice from rangers.

The next stretch of the coast is stunning! You’ll want to stop at every scenic overlook; there isn’t a bad view along the entire drive. This is especially true once you enter Oregon. 

Brookings is a good place for an overnight at Beachfront Inn . From there, Newport may only be 200 miles away, but it’s definitely going to take some time to get there. A few of the must-see spots include Spruce Island Viewpoint, Meyers Creek Beach Viewpoint, and Heceta Head Lighthouse and Cape Perpetua. 

Once you’re in Newport, head to Mo’s Seafood and Chowder for some crave-worthy clam chowder. While there are now multiple locations, there’s nothing like a cup from the original.

With its incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, historic lighthouses, charming towns, and lush forests, a drive from San Francisco to Newport is one of the best west coast road trips , and an experience you’ll remember forever.

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

23. Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii

Distance: 200 miles Recommended time: 5-7 days Best time of year: anytime

The Big Island of Hawaii is a bucket list destination and a must-see. A road trip to experience all the unique places should definitely be part of your Big Island itinerary . 

As most visitors land at Kona International Airport, this road trip starts in the beach town of Kona, then continues to the rainforest town of Hilo, followed by a visit to the Volcanoes National Park and then back to Kona.

A total of 5-7 days are recommended for this Big Island road trip to explore all the best sights. 

Plan to spend a few nights in Kona to experience the amazing beaches and snorkeling activities. Kona is the drier side of the Big Island and where all the brand-name resorts are.

The next stop is Hilo, which is around 2 hours drive from Kona. Hilo is where the amazing waterfalls are like Akaka falls and Rainbow Falls. Plan to spend a couple of nights in Hilo. 

Hilo makes for a great base to visit the Volcanoes National Park which is around 45 minute drive from Hilo.

There are amazing hikes here like the Kilauea Iki Crater hike, and you can see the lava glow depending on recent volcanic activity in the park. Visit the nearby black sand beach which is amazing to see. (Oh and if you love unique beaches, be sure to add the Black Sand Beach Vieques in Puerto Rico to your bucket list!)

Finally, make your way back to Kona to complete your road trip. 

In Kona,  King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel  is a great beachfront hotel at a prime location. In Hilo, the Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is a great oceanfront property. 

Although not on the continental US, you can definitely say this is one spectacular road trip USA west coast!

Recommended by Anu of Destination Checkoff

24. Boise to Twin Falls (road trip USA west coast – perfect weekend getaway)

Distance: 285 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through September

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path road trip in Western USA, give Idaho a try.

From Boise to Twin Falls, you’ll walk on the Oregon trails where emigrants travelled in the early 1800s, discover lava tube caves and paddleboard on a crystal clear turquoise river.

Start in Boise, the capital city of Idaho . Make sure to walk around the city center, visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary and hike the Table Rock trail (a 3.5 miles hike).

Then, drive to Three Island Crossing State Park. It’s 73 miles away from Boise.

Stop at Y Knot Winery for a winery tour and a wine tasting. You can stop at the Oregon Trail Interpretive Site and see the original wagon ruts and Conestoga replicas. Or take a self-guided tour of the park.

The Three Island Crossing State Park has a nice campground if you’re camping.

The next day, drive to Twin Falls and explore the Thousand Springs State Park complex . Make a first stop at the Malad Gorge unit, where you can walk along the rim to the Devil’s Washbowl Overlook.

Next up, drive to the Ritter Island unit, where you can paddleboard around the island and admire Lemon Falls. When you are ready, drive to Box Canyon Springs. You can hike down to enjoy the Snake River.

End your day at the Niagara Springs unit before arriving in Twin Falls for the night.

Don’t miss the Perrine Coulee Falls, the Shoshone Falls and the Perrine Memorial Bridge in Twin Falls. If time allows, drive north to Shoshone and stop at the Mammoth’s Idaho Cave and the Shoshone Ice Cave.

Recommended by Emilie of Love Life Abroad

25. Portland to Yellowstone National Park

Distance: 800+ miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: May through August

A great road trip to take in the Western USA is from  Portland, Oregon to Yellowstone National Park , and back again.

There are 2 routes that are roughly the same distance, one which follows a southern route and one which follows a northern route. It’s the northern route that passes through some amazing landscapes.

Taking the northern route will cover over 800 miles and can be done in as little as 2 days. However, if you are combining it with a visit to Yellowstone National Park, visit the park first and take a leisurely drive back to Portland over several days, stopping at least once along the route.

From Portland, you take I-84, along the Columbia Gorge Creek. If you have time and are doing this route over a few days, stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most popular recreational places to visit in the Pacific Northwest.

After Columbia Gorge Creek, you will meet I-90 which travels through spectacular scenery and past Coeur d’Alene which sits on the northern end of Harrison Slough lake. 

From wide open country to mountain passes with slopes of trees on either side and then ranch country of Montana, the ever-changing landscape will leave you awe-inspired. 

Yellowstone National Park is your destination and it won’t disappoint. Don’t miss Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs.

On your return journey, spend a few nights in Missoula and enjoy leisure time in Caras Park, meditate among the statues of the Garden of 1000 Buddhas, or visit the National Bison Range. And then head back toward Portland.

This route is best taken during summer due to possible road closures due to snow/ice conditions during the winter. There are some steep mountain roads to pass which may be hazardous to drive. 

And be aware that later in summer, the landscape may not be completely visible due to forest fires. However, if you manage to avoid them, you will have a pleasurable drive along this US west coast road trip!

Recommended by Cath of Passports and Adventures

26. Anchorage to Fairbanks (gorgeous west coast road trip itinerary)

Distance: 360 miles Recommended time: 5 – 7 days Best time of year: June through September

Alaska offers an ideal road trip to visit its gorgeous national parks!

Starting in Anchorage, head north toward the small town of Trapper Creek for approximately 2 hours. You should stay 1-2 nights in the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. This quaint lodge is in a secluded area and has a few restaurants onsite.

From there, you can drive further north for 2 hours to Denali National Park or take the  McKinley Explorer train ride  from the nearby town of Talkeetna. This luxurious train offers double decks for upstairs seating under the glass dome windows and downstairs restaurant dining.

The scenic train journey (climbing from 350 to 1600 feet altitude) takes 5 hours and crosses many rivers.

Once in Denali National Park, you can stay at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge for 2 nights. This resort offers a huge main lodge, several restaurants and many gift shops.

You’ll want to spend at least 1 full day touring the nearby Denali National Park where you’ll see jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife such as grizzly bears, ground squirrels, golden eagles, Dall sheep or wolverines!

Onward to Fairbanks for a 2.5-hour drive, you can stay at the comfortable  Westmark Fairbanks Hotel which offers expansive views from the rooms.

One fun excursion to do in Fairbanks is the  Riverboat Discovery tour  which takes you on an eventful cruise on the Chena and Tanana rivers aboard an authentic sternwheeler boat. Observe sled dog training, bush pilot flying and visit a traditional village.

This is one of the best west coast road trip itineraries, and the best time of year to do it is in September to see the amazing Autumn colors!

Recommended by Jan of Jan Adventures

27. Southern California charm: Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang

Distance:  130 miles Recommended time:  3-4 days Best time of year:  anytime

While this west coast road trip may be low in mileage, it takes you through some of the best spots in California! A route primarily along an ocean-front section of Highway 101, you’ll see Ventura, Channel Islands National Park, Santa Barbara and Solvang. 

Departing from Los Angeles, drive north roughly 2 hours to your first stop, Ventura. You’ll want to spend at least 2 nights here.

On your first evening, you should visit Ventura’s Main Street. This pedestrian-friendly street is full of theaters, boutiques, breweries, and restaurants . Check out TikiGirl for shopping and Rumfish y Vino for dinner. You could also visit the historic Spanish Mission San Buenaventura or grab drinks at the VenTiki Tiki Lounge.

Using the next full day, visit Channel Islands National Park . Departing from Ventura Harbor, take the official boat taxi, Island Packers, to see one of the least visited national parks in the country. Along the way, dolphin, sea lion, or other marine life sightings are nearly guaranteed. 

On your 3rd day, drive an hour north along the coast for your next stop, Santa Barbara . Two nights are also recommended here. Santa Barbara has a wide variety of activities.

From surfing to kayaking and hiking to wine tasting, there is no shortage of fun things to do . If you’re looking to stay in the heart of the action, try the Hotel Californian. Other recommended spots for food or drinks include Zaytoon, Handlebar Coffee Roasters, Loquita and the Santa Barbara Public Market.

Finally, your last stop takes you inland to California’s Danish town. Solvang is memorable for its windmills sprinkled throughout the walkable town.

A thematic experience, Solvang boasts many bakeries and hosts festivals celebrating its Danish heritage. It’s also within the Santa Ynez Valley, so you can visit many wineries and sample some of California’s best wines. If you like cycling, this area is also quite popular among cyclists and you can even do a wine and cycling tour . So fun!

Recommended by Taylor of Taytrum Travels

28. Portland to Southwest Utah (more amazing sights on this US west coast road trip)

Distance: 2,000+ miles Recommended time: 6+ days Best time of year: May or June

This is the West USA road trip for pacific northwest dwellers who are emerging from a long winter and craving sunshine!

The best time for this road trip is the last week of May or the first week of June. The parks are open and it’s hot in SW Utah but it is not the high season yet.

At just over 2,000 miles roundtrip, you will cover some ground. Plan on setting aside at least 6 days to complete the loop, and 8+ days if you have the extra time. 

Beginning in Portland, drive east to Boise, Idaho for your first night. Make sure to stop at Shoshone Falls on the way.

From Boise, continue to SW Utah, stopping in Salt Lake for lunch. Spend 3-5 days exploring all that Southwest Utah has to offer and soaking up the desert sun.

Stay at Under Canvas Zion for a luxury glamping experience, and/or at Zion EcoCabins for other worldly views from your A-frame or private hot tub. For details and more places to stay check out where to stay Near Zion National Park . 

Allocate at least 1 day to explore Zion National Park. Hike Angels Landing for sunrise and Canyon Overlook Trail in the afternoon.

The next day, venture to Red Cliffs National Conservation Area for incredible scenery and hiking, then hop over (5 minutes) to Quail Creek Reservoir to cool off. You can even rent paddle boards and kayaks. 

On your last day, begin your journey home and stop at Bryce Canyon National Park on the way.

Spend a few hours exploring the trails around Sunrise Point to get a feel for the park. The Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop offers spectacular scenery.

Continue on to Park City for your last night. Spend the evening strolling the picturesque streets. Rise early to make your way back to Portland.

Recommended by Jade of Well and Good Travel

29. Las Vegas to Death Valley

Distance: 298 miles (there and back) Recommended time: 1 – 3 days Best time of year: October through April

Unknowingly to most, Las Vegas is actually a perfect starting point for many west coast road trips itineraries. You can oftentimes find affordable flights to the McCarran airport which will start your adventure off on the right foot.

This Las Vegas to Death Valley road trip will take you to other-worldly landscapes, epic hikes and some of the best views. 

The Furnace Creek Visitor Center in Death Valley is located just over 2 hours from the airport and this road trip can actually be completed in just one day! Get an early start to your day so you can catch the breathtaking sunrise inside the park. 

After arriving in the park, head to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to watch the sun rise over the undisturbed and smooth sand dunes. You can choose to hike to the top of a dune or watch closer to the parking lot. Once the sun has risen, head to the Mosaic Canyon Trail for a 3.3-mile hike. 

Other stops on this road trip include lunch at Stovepipe Wells, marveling at the lowest place in North America , Badwater Basin, driving Artist Palette drive, Golden Canyon trail and watching the sunset over Zabriske point. 

It’s HIGHLY discouraged to visit this park in the summer months as the temperature rarely dips below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so this road trip is best done between October and April . If you’re wanting to extend your time in Death Valley, you can grab a room at one of the 4 on-site lodges or a campsite.

If completing this west coast road trip in a day, you will then return back to Las Vegas for a good night’s rest and to prepare for the rest of your L as Vegas adventures . No matter how long you choose to spend on the road trip, it’ll surely be one to remember for years to come.

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

30. Seattle to Glacier National Park (a favorite on this list of American west coast road trips)

Distance: 805 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: April through October

This west coast road trip itinerary is one of the most scenic routes in the U.S! It passes through 2 national parks, varied landscapes, gorgeous lakes and quaint cities like Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. 

A perfect itinerary would be spending 1 full day hiking through Mount Rainer, exploring the best of Paradise Mt Rainier , including Myrtle Falls and Reflection Lakes.

The next day can be spent by driving to the Idaho panhandle. If you have the time, be sure to stop in Palouse Falls and Spokane City along the way.

Then spend one day in Coeur d’Alene, and 2 days exploring Glacier. Be sure to check out all the amazing things to do in Glacier National Park like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Avalanche Lake Trail , iconic Lake McDonald and going stargazing.

It’s optimal to take this road trip between April – October since the scenic roads at Mount Rainer and Glacier National Park are closed in the winter. 

To make the most of your time, make sure to leave early from Mount Rainer on day 2. There’s a lot of ground to cover between Mount Rainer and Coeur d’Alene, and you will thank yourself for finishing it in a single day.

Waking up in Idaho on day 3 will make the remainder of the trip much more relaxing.

In each National Park, there are lots of campsites available to reserve, but in between Mount Rainer and Glacier, one of the best places to stay is at One Lakeside Hotel , right at the heart of Coeur d’Alene.

Of course, if you have more time, you could add a day for each part of the journey, or spend one day in Seattle , too.

Recommended by Caleb of Pazook Travel Journal

US West coast road trip itineraries

Whew! What a list!

There are exciting adventures around nearly every curvy road, mountain, desert scene and coastal area in the American west. There’s simply so many breathtaking views along these routes in the west. How do you ever choose?!

Let’s recap that list one more time, in a quicker fashion…

Road trip USA West Coast ideas

• Oregon Coast
• San Francisco to San Diego
• Washington National Parks
• Anchorage to Seward
• Phoenix to Tucson
• San Francisco to Yosemite
• Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon
• Utah national parks
• Salt Lake City to Yellowstone
• Salem, Mt Hood and Oregon waterfalls loop
• Death Valley to Yosemite
• Road to Hana, Maui
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
• Grand Teton to Glacier National Park 
• Kauai road trip
• Portland to Seattle, plus Astoria
• Las Vegas, Southern Utah and Arizona
• Death Valley to Mammoth Lakes
• Alaska Highway
• Los Angeles, Joshua Tree, San Diego
• Denver to Moab
• San Francisco, CA to Newport, OR 
• Kona to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii
• Boise to Twin Falls
• Portland to Yellowstone National Park
• Anchorage to Fairbanks
• Ventura, Santa Barbara, Solvang
• Portland to Southwest Utah
• Las Vegas to Death Valley
• Seattle to Glacier National Park

Related posts to read next: 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love 32 Amazing Stops on a San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip (You’ll Love) AMAZING Utah National Parks Road Trip (Map, Best Hikes, Scenic Route Between Parks + More) 12 Epic Scenic Drives Colorado (Map + Tips + Photos)

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Sunday 19th of February 2023

These all look like beautiful road trips! I think I would combine a few different ones and go for a couple of weeks of exploring!

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

Loooove this idea! So many good ones, it would be hard to choose. Wise to combine a few :)

Thursday 16th of February 2023

Marvelous places! I’d so loooove to ride my motorcycles on some of these roads, especially Death Valley!

Friday 17th of February 2023

Oh that would be so much fun Isabella! Sounds like a trip in your future ;)

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

This is an epic road trip guide through the American West Coast. We are planning to take a road trip from Seattle to San Francisco so this will serve as a great resource.

Oh that will be an awesome road trip! Love the coastal, moody vibes from Seattle to San Francisco. Have fun!!

Linda (LD Holland)

We do love a great road trip and these are some great choices on the west coast. We have talked about investing in a satellite communicator and really should follow up. And now day we will make it up to Alaska for a great summer road trip.

Linda yes! A satellite communicator is crucial when you're in areas with no cell phone coverage. And gosh, a road trip through Alaska sounds amazing too. Enjoy!

These all so incredible, I don't even know how I would choose! The Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon route looks out of this world😍

Right?! There's so many fabulous places in the western USA, it's really difficult to decide, that's for sure!

The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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11 Family Vacations Along the West Coast

West Coast = Best Coast. Stretching from Washington to Southern California, this diverse slice of America features rainforests, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, urban centers, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for an amusement park weekend with your tiny tots or a week of mountain exploration for older kids, use this guide to book the perfect resort for your next family getaway.

A Family-Friendly Yosemite Gateway Retreat

Two Bay Area dads launched Rush Creek Lodge after realizing there were no family-focused hotels near Yosemite National Park. Set on a wooded hillside just beyond the park’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, the 20- acre property features adventurous playgrounds with surprises like steep ziplines and wild slides. Indoors, families can grab a casual meal at the Tavern or play a round of cards in the indoor game room.

Book a main lodge room for smaller families, or opt for a spacious hillside villa with multiple bedrooms, a large seating area, a fireplace , a mini kitchen, and an expansive private deck with alpine forest vistas. You won’t find TVs though – Rush Creek keeps it old school and supplies radios and games for entertainment instead of electronics.

When you’re ready to explore the Sierra Nevada’s wilds, book a private guided nature excursion with the Recreation Program at Rush Creek Lodge. Choose short walks into sequoia groves or lengthy climbs up granite domes, and discover quiet trails beyond Yosemite’s hotspots. After your hike, soak tired muscles in the heated saltwater pool, and cheers to a day of adventure with cocktails (and mocktails for the kids) at the Pool Bar.

Rush Creek Lodge At Yosemite

An island beach getaway in san diego.

Seeking an island retreat without leaving the mainland? Head to Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay in San Diego, California. With its bungalow-style rooms and tropical gardens, this 44-acre island gives you Caribbean vibes, but it’s actually right next door to Sea World. Stay to roam its mile-long sandy beach, take a plunge in one of five swimming pools, dine at one of five restaurants, or simply build a bonfire with your family on the beach.

Adventurous families can bike ride along the bay on nearby paths, putt around the golf course, or play lawn games outside. If sports are your family pastime, enjoy a round of basketball or tennis together. Beyond the resort property, find fast-paced fun at Sea World, see wild animals at the San Diego Zoo, or explore the shops of Old Town San Diego.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

A mountain resort with an all-new aquatics center.

Escape to Oregon for a family retreat near Bend at Sunriver Resort . Set in the mountains along the Deschutes River, Sunriver is a place outdoorsy families can come to bike, float, golf, horseback ride, and play tennis together.

Choose to stay in one of 245 hip guestrooms and suites, or rent out a luxury home or condo—many with their own hot tub . If you’re bringing Rover along, don’t worry – pet-friendly accommodations are available.

Kids will love splashing in the new Cove aquatic center, built along the existing outdoor pool. This indoor-outdoor center offers year-round swimming, a zero-entry pool, a spiral waterslide, a large jetted spa, and a pool bar (for the adults).

Sunriver Resort

A classic washington resort in the cascade mountains.

Get away from it all in the Cascade Mountains with a rustic stay at Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort . The secluded location along Icicle Creek, just outside the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth, features foothills to explore and gourmet onsite dining.

Use the resort as a basecamp and take your family apple picking in the Wenatchee Valley, or try zipline adventures and kayaking outdoors. When the snow falls, enjoy skiing, sledding, tubing, and even ice climbing nearby.

Guest rooms are uniquely arranged in clusters made up of several private rooms—perfect if you’re planning a reunion or other family gathering. You can also book the Rookery cabin, which sleeps up to eight in plush quarters.

Relax after busy days with a self-guided art walk or take a break from the kids and enjoy a deep tissue massage at Aspen Leaf Day Spa. Let teens explore the property on a self-guided art walk, or smell herbs in the resort’s organic garden.

Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort

A happening revamped motor lodge in the heart of san francisco.

Enjoy a San Francisco vacay at Hotel del Sol —an old motor lodge transformed into a hip, colorful stay in the Marina District. This kid- and pet-friendly oasis includes touches like free milk and cookies in the afternoons, goodie-filled knapsacks for kids, and special children’s programming.

Adults will love this vibrant, beachy hotel too thanks to its affordable parking, outdoor courtyard, heated outdoor pool, and complimentary continental breakfast. Hotel del Sol’s Marina District neighborhood is a quick walk to landmarks like Union Street, Palace of Fine Arts, and Park Presidio.

Hotel Del Sol

Beachfront property on oregon's rugged coast.

Take in Oregon coastline views at The Ocean Lodge , Cannon Beach’s premier waterfront hotel. Enjoy a long walk on the beach, explore tidepools with your family, and roast s’mores by moonlight. When the weather turns chilly, enjoy the lodge’s library of movies and games like chess, cards, and bocce.

Set on sandy shoreline with miles of beach to play on, you can walk from the lodge to see the legendary Haystack Rock jutting out of the ocean. With only 45 rooms, service is top notch and includes thoughtful features like fresh baked cookies, a wood-burning fireplace in the lobby, and daily breakfast.

The Ocean Lodge

Indoor waterpark resort in grand mound, washington.

Don’t wait for summer to visit a water park! Great Wolf Lodge in Centralia, Washington has an indoor waterpark with slides , river rides, splash pads, and a wave pool that are open year-round. Wow the kids with a stay in a themed suite with fun cave-style bunk beds and receive free waterpark passes for the whole family.

When tummies are grumbling, grab pizzas at Hungry as a Wolf or fancier fare at Lodge Wood Fire Grill, then treat yourselves with dessert at Bear Paw Sweets & Eats. Keep the crew entertained by making a stuffed animal at Build-A-Bear, play a few rounds in the arcade, or explore the lodge on a magical quest.

Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound

A theme park resort for lego-loving families.

Treat your kiddos to the ultimate vacation and sleep right outside Legoland California at Legoland California Resort Hotel in Carlsbad. Fanatics will go crazy for themed rooms with ninjas, castles, and pirates and the LEGO shop filled with goodies that kids can construct right in your guestroom (just watch out if you’re walking barefoot).

Expect interactive features throughout the hotel and nightly children’s entertainment. Breakfast is included with your stay at Bricks Family Restaurant, while lunch and dinner are served onsite at Skyline Café.

Legoland itself caters to ages 2-12 and has over 60 sliding, bouncing, rollercoastering rides that kids and grownups will love. Don’t miss realistic Lego reconstructions of New York City, New Orleans, and San Francisco.

Hotel Legoland California Resort

A family favorite right in fisherman's wharf.

Stay in the heart of San Francisco’s action at Hotel Zephyr , a youthful property near Pier 39, Ghiradelli Square, and the Museum of 3D Illusions —all tourist attractions you and the kiddos will love. The maritime theme ties into its by-the-bay location and most rooms boast waterfront views. Seafaring décor bedecks the hotel lobby—to the delight of kids and the young at heart.

A sculpture-filled outdoor play area called The Yard brings families together to compete in giant Connect 4, foosball, and shuffleboard. Start the day right by grabbing Belgian waffles or croissants from The Camper food truck, and return to The Yard at night to roast marshmallows around the fire pits.

The adjacent Zephyr Walk houses seven eateries and four tour operators—all offering discounts to Zephyr guests. Choose from Big Bus Tours, Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals and Tours, San Francisco Segway Tours, and more.

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

Go glam at this stunning lake tahoe retreat.

Whether you come to ski Nortstar California’s slopes in winter or paddle and sail Lake Tahoe’s azure waters in summer, the Ritz-Carlton- Lake Tahoe is the perfect AAA Five Diamond home base for your family getaway. Located mid-mountain with lakefront views, the Ritz exudes luxury but is welcoming to families. Spacious guest rooms features floor- to-ceiling mountain-facing windows and in-room fireplaces for chilly nights.

Tiny tykes (and their parents) will love the Ritz Kids program and its schedule of kid-friendly programming. Expect dive-in movies at the pool on summer nights, Telescope Tuesdays where littles can stare up at brilliant stars, a daily scavenger hunt, and a complimentary s’mores kit.

Looking to explore beyond the property? Ride the gondola to Village at Northstar or explore the historic town of Truckee. Get into the great outdoors on a naturalist-led family hike to Sawmil Lake. Unwind after by relaxing under a private cabana at the pool. When you need a parents’ day out, schedule massages at Ritz-Carlton’s luxurious 17,000-square- foot spa, followed by an al fresco dinner at Slopeside Backyard Bar and BBQ.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

A pacific ocean beauty on the southern california coast.

Set on the southwestern tip of the Palos Verdes Peninsula near Los Angeles, Terranea Resort is a luxurious retreat known for its spacious bungalows, casitas, and villas that fit your whole family. While Terranea has four swimming pools, families will love the Main Pool most thanks to its 140-foot waterslide and Pacific Ocean vistas.

There’s endless terrain to explore through the resort’s Experience Center, which books nearby adventures on land and sea. However, you may be tempted to just stay at the resort and enjoy delectable dining, award-winning golf, an impressive spa, and boutique shopping—all perched on rugged coastal cliffs.

Terranea Resort

11 Scenic West Coast Destinations For Fall Getaways

The West Coast is a unique destination that offers visitors an exquisite blend of beauty and entertainment. From the painted mountains and valleys to the small towns brimming with fun fall activities, there is something for everyone here. Much of the West Coast experiences mild, crisp temperatures during the fall, with the autumn foliage at its peak throughout October in most regions, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Popular fall destinations to explore on the West Coast include the Bavarian-styled city of Leavenworth, where you can experience authentic German cuisine and culture, and the various trails around Mount Hood that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, you can visit the haunted locations in Salem (Oregon) or rediscover cultural gems like the Japanese Tea Garden and San Francisco Botanical Garden as the leaves change. 

Our list of destinations includes both popular and lesser-known locations that provide a perfect balance of natural beauty and engaging activities. To curate this list, we conducted extensive research on travel forums such as Reddit and Quora, gaining insights from frequent visitors. From peaceful walks along tranquil rivers and crisp coastal beaches to autumn hikes that offer breathtaking mountain views, consider these destinations for your next West Coast fall getaway. 

Ashland, Oregon

Ashland, Oregon treats visitors to a visual feast from the end of September to the end of October. Tree-lined pathways on the Southern Oregon University Campus transform this college town into a canvas of vibrant colors, offering a picturesque experience as you walk through downtown Ashland. The crowning jewel of Ashland, Lithia Park, displays incredible pops of colors with different hues of yellow, orange, red, and purple. This 93-acre sanctuary offers miles of hiking trails and gardens, including the breathtaking Japanese Garden and Rose Garden, duck ponds, and fountains. However, visitors should be prepared for potentially damp and rainy days while exploring the town's exquisite outdoor landscapes.

If you enjoy fine arts, immerse yourself in world-class theatrical performances at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival Theatre or stop by the Oregon Cabaret Theatre. With a diverse repertoire of plays and performances, these cultural gems add a special touch to the fall experience in Ashland. Nature lovers can explore the surrounding hills and hiking trails, such as Oredson-Todd Woods, or enjoy the incredible views from Mount Ashland. Ashland's downtown scene offers a delightful blend of activities for the whole family, including the ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum and Ashland Library. Explore the streets lined with unique shops, savor culinary delights and local wine, and immerse yourself in the town's rich artistic scene.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco unveils its most colorful and enchanting side during October and the beginning of November. Venture to the top of Twin Peaks for a mesmerizing panorama that stretches across the entire city, or visit the Marin Headlands for postcard-worthy scenes of the Golden Gate Bridge against the Pacific Ocean backdrop. As the temperatures mellow and the crowds subside, fall becomes the perfect season to immerse yourself in iconic San Francisco activities. Catch the vibrant yellow, orange, and red colors as you explore the Golden Gate Park , where you will find gardens, lakes, and cultural highlights like the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Embark on a ferry journey to Alcatraz Island, where the historic prison provides a fascinating glimpse into the past with captivating views of the city skyline and the bay. Take a trip to Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley for incredible views of fall foliage against the rolling hills and vineyards of wine country, or venture out to Yosemite National Park, a top-ranked West Coast destination for incredible views of vibrant golden fall foliage. Though the weather is more mellow, you can typically expect sunny days with an enjoyable breeze. Enjoy fall activities such as picking out pumpkins and finding your way through an intricate maze at Arata's Pumpkin Patch or enjoying fall treats from a variety of shops in the shopping center downtown.

Big Sur, California

The stunning coastal beauty of Big Sur truly comes to life during October and November, when the area is awash with breathtaking golden hues and scenic vistas. This iconic drive along Highway 1 offers incredible coastal views, with plenty of pull-over spots where you can get out and explore. Notable destinations that you won't want to miss include Nepenthe , a cliffside restaurant that boasts panoramic views, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve with its diverse ecosystems and scenic hiking trails, and McWay Falls, where a stunning waterfall cascades onto a pristine beach. You can also immerse yourself in the vibrant autumn colors by hiking through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Another must-see attraction is the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, which provides a perfect vantage point to capture the coastal scenery and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. With fewer crowds to contend with during this time of year, you can enjoy a relaxing day at Pfeiffer Beach, known for its purple sand and stunning rock formations, or hike down some trails to Partington Cove. To complement the incredible views from Highway 1, you'll find plenty of restaurants, bakeries, shops, and art galleries along the way. When it comes to accommodations, Big Sur offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to more unique experiences like a cozy room at Post Ranch Inn or a comfy yurt at Treebones Resort.

Bainbridge Island, Washington

Nestled in the heart of Washington, Bainbridge Island is a stunning location that boasts a tapestry of vibrant foliage and serene landscapes from October to November. Take a moment to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Bloedel Reserve, a public garden that unfolds diverse landscapes, including Japanese gardens, woodlands, and meadows. The peaceful Fay Bainbridge Park is another must-visit location that offers breathtaking waterfront views, picturesque beachcombing opportunities, and scenic picnic spots. If you want to explore the island's charm, there are plenty of activities to engage in. You can hop on a bike and take a leisurely ride through picturesque neighborhoods, farmlands, and the scenic coastline of Bainbridge Island. 

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art offers contemporary art exhibits and cultural installations that showcase the island's rich history and cultural heritage and are free to the public. You can also explore Fort Ward State Park, the Suquamish Museum, and the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial to experience the island's diverse history, innovation, and military structures. You may also consider visiting the downtown area of Winslow, known for its charming shops, galleries, and cafes that create an artsy atmosphere. During the fall season, expect mildly chilly weather and the island adorned in a palette of autumn colors that enhance its already scenic landscapes.

Anchorage, Alaska

As autumn sets in September and October, the Alaskan wilderness surrounding Anchorage undergoes a breathtaking transformation of vibrant golden hues dotting its rich green landscapes. If you do not only want to visit Anchorage for its stunning fall foliage, then visit it for the incredible wildlife experiences that happen during this time of year. In preparation for winter, wildlife starts moving closer to the city. This makes fall an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. Explore the breathtaking Chugach State Park , offering mountain views and opportunities to spot Alaska's native species, or hike Flattop Mountain for a panoramic perspective of the city and the picturesque Cook Inlet.

Popular activities in autumnal Anchorage include Oktoberfest, biking and hiking, and enjoying the scenic coastal, mountain, and wildlife views along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Immerse yourself in Alaska's indigenous cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center , featuring informative exhibits, captivating performances, and traditional crafts. Ride the Alaskan rail or embark on a day cruise to see glaciers and wildlife, adding a touch of adventure to your Anchorage experience. 

Additional popular destinations include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Anchorage Museum, offering exhibits on Alaskan history, art, and science for a comprehensive cultural exploration. Longer days and clearer nights during this time of year typically mean more breathtaking views of the aurora borealis, adding a unique and unforgettable touch to the fall experience in Anchorage.  

Salem, Oregon

Enjoy Salem's fall foliage from September to October, with moderately chilly temperatures and fall-inspired activities. What makes Salem unique is its variety of parks nearby bursting with fall colors. Some popular parks include Bush's Pasture Park, Orchard Heights Park, Brush College Park, and Riverfront Park. Head to Silver Falls State Park to experience the Trail of Ten Falls, offering lush foliage and cascading waterfalls, or stop by the Deepwood Museum and Gardens for picture-perfect fall backdrops. Enjoy popular activities like exploring the vineyards and wine tasting in the Willamette Valley, or visit local pumpkin patches for a family-friendly experience.

Discover the museums, shops, and cultural sites in Salem's historic district, and explore the state capitol building and its scenic grounds. Seasonal activities include apple picking, corn mazes, and harvest festivals, and local farms and orchards typically serve fall treats like donuts and apple cider. When the fall harvest season is in full swing in the Willamette Valley, don't miss visiting Salem's nearby vineyards and wineries. Or, if you're looking for a more spooky Halloween experience, visit some of Salem's haunted landmarks and buildings.

Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood is an inactive volcano that transforms into a breathtaking display of orange, yellow, and red colors from late September until the end of October. For those who love winter sports, Mount Hood offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences, though the season typically starts in early November. For a more leisurely experience, take the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway, a picturesque drive that offers stunning views of the mountain foliage and its surroundings. The Hood River Valley is also a must-visit destination, with its local farmers' markets, orchards, and renowned wineries that offer freshly harvested apples and pears, pumpkin picking, and wine tastings.

If you're looking for other ways to experience the fall beauty of Mount Hood, there are plenty of options. Trillium Lake offers a stunning reflection of the mountain and its colorful foliage, while the Gallery Without Walls art walk is a unique outdoor experience that combines nature and art. For those who enjoy hiking, the Mt. Hood National Forest , Hunchback Mountain, Hidden Falls Nature Park, and Old Salmon River Trail offer some of the best trails and locations to experience the fall foliage up close. You can stay in unique cabin rentals or find accommodations in nearby towns to make the most of your Mount Hood experience.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, lets you experience a taste of Bavaria amid Washington's breathtaking Cascade Mountains. It offers visitors incredible landscapes and diverse cultural activities, and the opportunity to experience impressive landscapes and vibrant fall foliage in popular spots like Tumwater Canyon and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness or Lake Wenatchee. Known for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, festive atmosphere, unique architecture, quaint shops, and delectable food, this charming town offers something for everyone. While downtown, enjoy the green spaces and community events at Front Street Park, a central gathering place in the heart of the village. 

If you're looking for an intriguing cultural experience, explore the fascinating world of nutcrackers and their history at the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum. Relax by the water at Waterfront Park, or embark on a scenic hike along the Enchantments Trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness . Stop at the Leavenworth Farmer's Market for beautiful artisan goods and local produce. Plan to visit Leavenworth from the end of September to mid-October for typical peak foliage. The weather is typically crisp during the fall, but depending on the year, you might find snow hitting Leavenworth towards the end of October. 

Bend, Oregon

Fall is a great time to visit Bend, Oregon for beautiful golden and orange foliage and mild chill weather, perfect for outdoor activities and photography. While planning a trip to this stunning West Coast destination during the fall , check the weather often, as September and October tend to bring unpredictable weather. For breathtaking panoramic views, you should head to Pilot Butte. This elevated vantage point allows you to take in the beautiful city and surrounding landscapes. The Deschutes River Trail and Mirror Lake are also popular attractions with incredible landscape views. If you love outdoor activities, try hiking and biking along the Deschutes River Trail or fishing on East Lake.

You can also immerse yourself in Bend's natural and cultural history at the High Desert Museum, or plan to visit during the Bend Film Festival, Fall Festival, and Oktoberfest. Follow the Bend Ale Trail to explore the diverse breweries that contribute to Bend's renowned craft beer scene, or stop by Drake Park, found along the Deschutes River, with riverfront views that are perfect for relaxing. 

The Old Mill District is another popular spot known for its unique boutiques and restaurants that pride themselves in using seasonal and locally grown produce. You can also attend concerts and performances at the historic Tower Theatre and Hayden Homes Amphitheater, but if you want to catch more of the exciting fall festivals and concerts, like the Sisters Folk Festival, plan to visit Bend during September.

Bellingham, Washington

Fall is the perfect time to plan a getaway to Bellingham, Washington, a charming coastal town with a little bit of everything to offer. For stunning panoramic views of the city and fall foliage, take a hike through Sehome Hill Arboretum at Western Washington University. Don't forget to climb up the observation tower for breathtaking views of Bellingham Bay. Another must-do activity is to take a scenic drive along Chuckanut Drive, offering picturesque backdrops of farmland, water, and the Chuckanut Mountains.

Bellingham is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of hiking trails available, such as Lake Whatcom Hertz Trail, Bagley Lakes trailhead, and Interurban trail, and though the weather can be unpredictable at times, it's typically nice and crisp. Or, if you're in the mood to relax, head to Boulevard Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll by the bay. 

The Fairhaven Historic District is a must-visit for those interested in history and shopping. The area is known for its charming shops and galleries. You can also shop for local goods made by a variety of artists and craftsmen at Bellingham's farmers market. For family-friendly activities, consider visiting Zuanich Park or exploring the interactive science exhibits at Mindport .

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington is a fantastic fall destination to add to your West Coast bucket list , offering iconic views, outdoor activities, and a rich history. The Paradise area is the perfect spot for scenic views of Mount Rainier surrounded by vibrant meadows and drastic landscapes, while Reflection Lake is a serene location that offers a stunning reflection of Mount Rainier in its calm waters, which is enhanced by the fall colors. The Skyline Trail near Paradise is an excellent option for hiking, providing panoramic views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and wildlife. The Grove of the Patriarchs trail is also popular due to its old-growth trees and suspension bridge. 

Stop by the Longmire Historic District, Longmire Museum, and the National Park Inn for a glimpse into the park's rich history. The Sunrise Visitor Center is another great spot to explore, offering information, exhibits, and stunning sunrise views of Mount Rainier. The best time to witness Mount Rainier's spectacular fall foliage is from October to the beginning of November, though plan on potential trail closures towards the end of October, depending on early snowfall. 

Methodology

While exploring different West Coast fall destinations, we referred to Reddit, Quora, and Tripadvisor forums to gain insight into some of the most popular West Coast towns and parks to visit, when to go during the fall for peak foliage, and what activities you can plan to do around the area. We then dug deeper into each location, choosing area highlights to help visitors plan diverse itineraries to accommodate a range of preferences. 

The 14 best day trips on the US West Coast

Oct 8, 2020 • 6 min read

San Francisco is at the heart of any West Coast adventure ©Mark Read/Lonely Planet

Landscapes and legends draw adventurers to the West, where a good day includes locavore dining, vineyard wine-sipping, Native American history and outdoor adventure. Western cities have distinct personalities. In California there's the  Hollywood flash of Los Angeles and silicon-meets-bohemian in San Francisco . Further north in Seattle , cutting-edge joins homegrown, often over a cup of joe. Opportunities for day trips abound to get to know the West Coast a little better. 

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Best day trips from Seattle

Snoqualmie Valley Seat of farm-to-table dining, dairy farms, lush orchards and small-town Americana, this mountain-framed valley is as lovely a drive as it is a destination. Head to Duvall for boutique shopping and wine tasting, or to North Bend for Twin Peaks nostalgia. Don’t miss gaping at the 82m Snoqualmie Falls from Salish Lodge in Snoqualmie town. 30min by car.

Leavenworth Bavaria too far? Thank goodness for Leavenworth, where you can eat German sausages, quaff frosty beers and see enough men in lederhosen to save that fare to Europe. The mountain scenery feels like The Sound of Music and you’ll actually hear Bavarian music piped through the streets. Take off on myriad outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Christmas here is magical. 2hr 20min by car.

Diablo Lake The intensely turquoise Diablo Lake sits in a bowl ringed by mesmerizing and often snow-topped peaks. There are heaps of trailheads to view-filled hikes, or plop in a canoe for paddling or fishing for rainbow trout. Don’t miss the Diablo Dam Overlook for one of the best views in the Cascade Mountains. 2hr 30min by car.

See more day trips from Seattle .

Best day trips from Portland 

Sauvie Island With pick-your-own fruit farms in summer, corn mazes and hay rides come autumn, and beaches, trails and waterways to explore year-round, Sauvie Island is an easy trip to pastoral bliss. Plus, it’s as fun for kids as it is for adults. As the largest island in Columbia River, any land not dedicated to farming is a protected wildlife area. Expect to see ospreys, herons, bald eagles and maybe even a beaver. 40min by car.

Cannon Beach The Oregon Coast holds some of the most beautifully grand but lesser-known beaches in the contiguous USA. Cannon Beach is the ideal, easy-to-reach introduction to the region, with miles of white sand, waterfalls tumbling to the beach and the hulking, 235ft Haystack Rock which makes for a picture-perfect silhouette. In town, you’ll find art galleries, chic boutiques and incredible dining (hint: try the chowder). 1hr 30min by car.

Johnston Ridge Observatory, Mt St Helens Gaze into the awesome crater of Mt St Helens from the state-of-the-art Johnston Ridge Observatory . Whether this is your destination or you’re preparing for a longer hike through the National Volcanic Monument, you’ll learn the science behind the 1500 atomic bomb-force eruption in 1980. Then take the 1-mile Eruption Trail walking loop for even more views, with explanations, of the volcanic destruction. Closed winter; 2hr 30min by car.

See more day trips from Portland .

Best day trips from San Francisco

Sausalito Just across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito’s picturesque town center has a charming strip of art galleries, ice cream parlors, cafes and boutiques, most set inside pretty pastel-painted Victorian buildings. Just beyond the town is a fascinating artistic houseboat community. Fort Baker, once a military garrison, is another worthwhile stop for a visit to the kid-friendly Bay Area Discovery Museum . 30min by car or ferry.

Muir Woods Forget San Francisco’s skyscrapers, head north to marvel at Mother Nature’s towering giants, a grove of trees that soar over 250ft. Muir Woods , named after the naturalist John Muir and established as a national monument in 1908, is a stunning slice of nature where you can walk between the massive redwoods and commune with an old-growth forest. Advance parking and shuttle reservations are required. 30min by car

Half Moon Bay As one of three self-described "Pumpkin Capitals" in America, Half Moon Bay is a great place to visit in October. The rest of the year, visitors stop here to horseback ride or cycle along the coast, or (in winter) to check out the famed surf spot Mavericks. At Pillar Point Harbor you can see crabs being sold straight from the fishing boats. 30min by car.

Sonoma Valley It was in Sonoma in 1846 that American rebels revolted against the Mexican government, an incident known as the Bear Flag Revolt. Wander around the historic town square , the largest plaza in California, home to excellent restaurants, shops and the Mission San Francisco Solano. Head north on Hwy 12 to visit wineries and Jack London Historic State Park . 1hr by car.

See more day trips from San Francisco .

Best day trips from Los Angeles

Laguna Beach Secluded coves, romantic cliffs, azure waves and waterfront parks imbue the city of Laguna with a Riviera-like feel. But nature isn’t the only draw. Laguna has a strong tradition in the arts, starting with the plein air impressionists who lived and worked here in the early 1900s. Today it’s the home of renowned arts festivals, galleries, a well-known museum and exquisitely preserved arts-and-crafts cottages and bungalows. 1hr by car.

Santa Barbara History meets art in this Spanish-style beachfront city that has it all: a mission, art museums and famous painters, and a thriving university in nearby Isla Vista. Perfect weather, beautiful buildings, excellent bars and restaurants, and activities for all tastes and budgets make Santa Barbara a must-see place for visitors to Southern California. Check out the Spanish Mission church first (the museum and tours are currently closed), then just see where the day takes you. 1hr 30min by car.

Catalina Island Here’s the secret to a peaceful Catalina getaway: after the ferry docks in charming Avalon, head out to explore. Go on foot or with a tour, by bike, kayak or golf cart – there’s a 20-year waiting list to own a car on the island. You’ll have a chance of spotting Catalina’s most famous Hollywood residents: bison. A 1924 film crew left a herd after shooting a western, and 150 now call Catalina home. 40min by car to ferry terminals in San Pedro & Long Beach, then 1hr ferry.

Alabama Hills Star Trek , Iron Man , Django Unchained , Gladiator , almost every single western ever – when Hollywood goes looking for a desolate, otherworldly landscape, they scout Alabama Hills , just west of Lone Pine. Its desert-like scrub and striking geological formations have been the backdrop for over 400 movie shoots. Just off Movie Flat Rd in the Alabama Hills Recreation Area is the Mobius Arch Loop Trail , where the eponymous arch folds scenically over Mt Whitney. 3hr by car.

See more day trips from Los Angeles .

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

15 Best Things To Do On The West Coast Of Florida (+ Hidden Gems!)

May 12, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

If you are looking for a list of the best things to do on the West Coast of Florida, we have you covered! Check out our list of the best cities and activities to do on the west coast. 

For those looking to explore the west coast of Florida, we have put together the best stops for those looking to road trip, or just take day trips from popular west coast cities like Naples, Tampa, and Pensacola.

From visiting offshore islands, breathtaking beaches along the Gulf coast, State parks, Florida springs, and historical sights there is so much to do!

Make sure to check out our master post on the Best Time To Visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

15 Best Things To Do On The West Coast Of Florida (+ hidden gems!)

Beer can island.

Located in Sarasota area of Longboat Key , Beer Can Island is not only one of our favorite  hidden gems in Florida , it is one of the best things to do on the west coast of Florida! . It is actually one of our favorite  Things To Do In Sarasota  so you really must visit. If you are looking to experience a magical island oasis, head to Beer Island ( also known as  Greer Island ), not to be confused with Beer Island in Tampa. As one of our favorite spots, we have put together this  post for tips when visiting  as visitors often find the location a bit tricky to find! 

For visitors you will walk along the sand path for 5-8 minutes before the path starts to open up and you will see more dead driftwood and trees. You will be awarded with gorgeous driftwood trees jetting up out of the beach and ocean, making it a picture perfect background.

Almost like escaping to a deserted island with its crystal clear water and lack of crowds as with other  nearby beaches ! Please be respectful as this island is beautiful but has a fragile ecosystem so make sure to not litter or destroy the mangroves or driftwood trees.

Rainbow River State Park

Rainbow River State Park is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida for those seeking a serene outdoor oasis featuring 10,000 year old sapphire-blue waters, ornamental gardens, waterfalls, and mossy covered trees. Best of all there is something to do here for everyone, whether looking to tube, kayak, and  swim in the spring  that stays a constant 72 degrees, hike the 2.5 mile path to explore waterfalls, or simply have a picnic in the park. 

Open daily from 8 am till sunset 365 day a year, admission is $2 per person. The State Park is located in the central west coast area of Florida, the nearest town is Dunnellon, and can be easily reached from Ocala, Orlando, Tampa and Naples. The entry fee does not cover water activities or the 4 mile spring run.  Tubing  is $20 a person and includes the 2 hour trek down the river, and your tram ticket back to the parking lot! 

Likewise you can rent a kayak for 1 hour for $16 ($50 daily) and canoes are $22 for an hour ($60 daily). The State Park is open for tubing April through September. Rainbow Springs hosts the Florida Manatee Festival, one of the best  festivals in Florida  dedicated to the  beautiful wild manatee s ! And the Jazz Up Dunnellon, a  music festival  in October.

For those looking to  camp on the Florida west coast , Rainbow Springs State Park’s campground is located along the river and visitors can reserve a spot at either an RV or a tent site. Campsites include free admission to the head springs and tubing area!

Marco Island Dome Houses

For one of the  more unique things to do on the Florida gulf coast head to Marco Island  and check out the Florida Dome Homes (Cape Romano Dome House). The houses are located about 300 feet offshore from Cape Romano Island, just south of Marco Island the homes are only accessible by boat or jet ski. 

Built by Bob Lee a millionaire seeking the seclusion of living an island life on the ocean, these 6 unusual-looking domes on slits over the water now act as shelter to preserve bird and aquatic life off the Gulf Coast. Don’t forget to check out the best things to do in Naples while you are here!

However, after Hurricane Andrew in 1992 the homes have not been inhabited and the dome structures have begun eroding back into the ocean, creating an artificial reef. Further hurricanes have continued to sink the homes making it one of the more unique reefs in Florida. Divers are in awe of the diverse aquatic life that have made the reef home. This is truly one of the best things to do in Southwest Florida!

Crab Island

 Found in northwestern panhandle town of  Destin , a visit to  Crab Island  one of the natural wonders that makes Florida so quintessentially Florida!

Crab Island, Florida is one of the most famous Florida west coast attractions. If you’ve ever vacationed in the area it is one of the most popular summer destinations and has been features on HGTV, Good Morning America, in various travel magazines and publications across the globe.

Crab Island is not an actual island, it was manmade by the Army Corps and has eroded overtime to become a sandbar. You can rent a boat, or take a charted boat out and anchor at the sandbar for a fun day of relaxing at the enormous sandbar just off the coast. Or try the Crab Island Company offers a Shuttle Boat, or a wildly popular Adventure Tour.

The best time to visit for the best weather is from spring to fall, and it is a popular destination for snowbirds,  spring breakers  and families as well!  While it is often considered a party destination during spring break times, there are floating food vendors during busy times.

Ringling Museum

If looking for what to do in Florida west coast for museum and architecture lovers try a visit to the Ringling Museum. This historical site in Florida is located in  Sarasota !

Visitors flock to the 36,000-square-ft Ca’ d’Zan winter residence of John and Mable Ringling. The Renaissance inspired pink 66 acre estate complex with a courtyard and  garden area showcased by flowers, fountains, and bronze and stone casts of iconic sculptures like Michaelangelo’s David. We highly recommend taking one of the 90 minute tours of the gardens that are offered weekdays at varying times, as the garden and buildings make for a    beautiful backdrop for Instagram photos. 

Built in 1930’s, today it houses 21 galleries housing masterworks from across Europe. The  Ringling Museum of Art  houses the collection of circus co-founder John and his wife Mable Ringling favorite artists from the Roman, Greek, Medieval, and Renaissance periods.

The entrance fee of $25 for adults at this state run museum. Reduced entrance rates are offered on Thursdays between 5 PM – 8 PM. Just an hour from Tampa by car, making it a must-visit on Florida west coast road trip  day trip from Tampa.  

Make sure to save time to visit the Ringling Circus Museum that showcases memorbelia and artifacts from various era’s of the circus. It also features the train carriage that the Ringling’s travelled across America in. 

Myakka River State Park

For those looking to explore state parks in Florida, the historic Myakka River State Park is one of the  Florida west coast destinations , you must visit! It is actually the only River that has been given the status of a State Park. And trust us the   Myakka River  is a breathtaking destination!

Over the 58 square miles of the park, the Myakka River travels through various ecosystems including wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. Visitors can expect to see a variety of Florida Wildlife including white-tailed deer, osprey and of course alligators on their  walk through the canopy ! The Myakka River is one of the  best places to see wild alligators in Florida .

Climb up 76 foot observation point, and walk through the towering hammock canopy to see vultures on the tops of live oak and palms. On the Birdwalk, you can see some of the rarest birds in Florida. The best time to see the most wildlife is when the water levels in the floodplain are low, usually around January through March.

Ford and Edison Winter Estate

Just three hours away from   Orlando , you will find what believe is one of the best places to visit on the west coast of Florida, the Ford and Edison Winter Estates . The Ford And Edison Winter Estate served as the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, two of the most well known inventors of all time.

Just think of how many inventions that we use daily were thought of here! We think there is something truly special about that, especially for those fascinated by history, invention, and science.

Once inside take one of the offered tours of the estate and the gorgeous botanical gardens! Where you will even get tot visit the laboratory used by Edison and Ford for inventions like Botanic Research. Inside the homes you will catch a glimpse inside the lives of the two men with model cars and electric experiments, as well as innovation gallery.

Explore the 20 acer botanical gardens with 1,700 plants from six continents including a rare plant Moonlight garden. Tickets are $25 for adults, with self-guided tours offered from 9 am to 4:30 pm. And the historian group tour is only $30. Trust us this is one of the things to do in the west coast of Florida that is worth the visit!

Boat Tour in Naples

If you are looking for Florida west coast getaways, why not head to Naples! Florida’s West Coast beaches are beautiful, but why not try something more exciting – a boat tour! There is a variety of tours offered, and we have an entire post of different boat tours in Naples.

This  tour  is one of the most fun Naples boat tours, exploring the Ten Thousand Island, one of Florida’s top natural attractions!  It is a chain of islands and mangrove off the coast of southwest Florida, between Cape Romano and the mouth of the Lostmans River.

The tour departs  Marco Island , about fifteen minutes south of Naples, with a max of 12 guests. Then you’ll head to a small barrier island only accessible by boat on tour lasting about 3 hours.

The captain will point out sea life while giving interesting facts on the local history and ecology. While on the island, you’ll be able to swim, go  snorkeling , or shelling.

Book Now :  Ten Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Wakulla Springs

No trip to Florida is complete without a visit to a spring. Visiting the springs are one of the great outdoor things to do on the west coast of Florida, regardless of time of year as they stay a constant 68-72 degrees year round. As it is a State Park entry fee is $6 per car, park opens at 8 am and swimming area at 9 am.

For those in North Florida looking for things to do on the west coast of Florida, Wakulla Springs should be at the top of your list! Wakulla springs are located near Tallahassee, within the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, a 6000 acre park.

 The Wakulla Springs are the World’s Largest Natural Spring, meaning this magical oasis provides space to relax, play, and explore. There are two level wooden swimming platforms to jump off, a large roped off swimming area, and a few sunbathing platforms for everyone to enjoy.

For those who dive, you can see remains of Mastodones at 120 feet, the first of which was discovered in 1850’s in what is known as the bone cave. Plus you can camp here!

Pensacola Beach

Located in the northwestern part of Florida, this panhandle beach stretch along the Gulf of Mexico and like all Gulf beaches  are known for warm water. With almost 20 miles of sugar-white sand and gorgeous blue water, Pensacola Beach is one of the best beaches on the west side of Florida.

Beaches on the west coast of Florida are some of the most  beautiful beaches in the state . Stroll the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk where you can shop, eat, and listen to live music. Pensacola beach is one of the great Panhandle beach towns on the west coast of Florida to visit with families and couples alike.

There is also a pier at Pensacola Beach where you can rent fishing gear from the bait and tackle shop. And once you’ve explored the beach and boardwalk, the whole area of Pensacola has lots of  fun things to do !

Lovers Key State Beach

This state park lives up to its name by being one of the best west coast Florida beaches . Just minutes from Fort Myers,  Lovers Key State Park  is best known for its perfect scenery and photographic backdrop. It’s also a popular  honeymoon  and  romantic getaway  destination.

With its serene, turquoise blue waters, it’s not hard to understand how this beach became known for love and romance. In fact, the beach was supposed to be sold for beach-front real estate but instead was donated to the state of Florida to be admired and enjoyed by all.

While one of the best things to do on the west coast of Florida lie back, relax, and spend time with those you love on the beautiful Gulf waters or at Lovers Key State Park. Plus the park also has lagoons and canals to explore, where you can spot wildlife.

The park offers all the amenities needed for a relaxing experience including parking, trams to the beach, and elevated boardwalks. In addition, beach wheelchairs can be rented for free to ensure every guest is able to experience the beauty of the beach. There are also restrooms and a picnic pavilion.

Caladesi Island State Park

Those who love the outdoors and are looking for what to do in Florida west coast, why not take a trip to Caladesi Island State Park ? This beautiful barrier island paradise has remained largely undeveloped, making it one of the best beaches in Florida for those who prefer a quiet, peaceful beach trip where you can disconnect. Plus it is just a quick trip from Clearwater.

Visitors to Caladesi Island State Park can bring their fishing gear, pack a picnic to enjoy at any of the pavilions or for those with kids enjoy the playground. For those wanting to be more adventurous, the tranquil  hiking trails  and paths along the dunes can be so relaxing as well.

For water lovers  kayak  through the mangroves on the island or try camping on a boat! The marina is equipped with electrical service and water hookups as well as a grill for a completely different  camping  experience.

If you’re up for a bit of a walk, Caladesi Island State Park is also accessible by foot from Clearwater Beach if you are willing to walk six miles.However, the easiest way to get here is via the Caladesi Ferry .

Three Sisters Springs

Just about 90 minutes north of  Tampa Bay , Three Sisters Springs is actually part of a large network of about 40 natural springs called Crystal River , and perfect for those on a Florida west coast road trip .

Three Sister Springs  originates in King’s Bay before emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. Only accessible by boat, these springs are one of the best outdoor things to do on the Florida west coast.

At Three Sister Springs you can swim with manatees or snorkel the crystal clear water . January, one of the  best times to see manatees as they migrate from rivers to natural springs to keep warm during the winter months.

Another option for those who don’t want to swim in the chilly water why not rent a glass-bottom boat or kayak to get an amazing view of the springs without getting wet!

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Ichetucknee Springs is another of the Florida springs that is located in Fort White, Florida. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is located to the south of US Highway 27, admission to the state park is $6 per vehicle.

You will find crystal-clear waters of one of Florida’s natural lazy rivers where you will can either paddle or tube down the 72 degree water from this first magnitude spring. Ichetucknee Springs often can get overwhelmed with visitors during the summer. For example, on memorial day, this park can draw up to 10,000 people to the park! 

If you are a diver and are certified, head to the Blue Hole Springs. This cave has more than 600 feet to explore and is a larger part of the first-magnitude springs in North Florida.

Fort De Soto

Fort De Soto Park , is truly one of the best west coast Florida playgrounds! Consisting of five offshore islands that are the perfect blend of natural coastal beaches with a unique history including a fort and more! Best of all it just minutes from Saint Petersburg one of the best cities on the west coast of Florida.

You can explore the over 7 miles of waterfront, camp at on of the 238 campsites , hike or bike over seven miles of paved trails, swim and relax on the beach, or explore the historic fort dating back to the Civil War! Making it one of the best small beach towns on the west coast of Florida!

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Garden tours, plants sales and more ways to spend time among flowers

Visit Maine's botanical gardens or get a sneak peek of what your neighbors are growing in their back yards.

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One of the loveliest ways to ease yourself fully out of the post-winter blahs and into springtime is to quit being a wallflower and instead surround yourself with living, blooming plants.

From botanical gardens to plant sales and garden tours, it’s time to make like the Scarecrow in “The Wizard of Oz” and while away the hours, conferring with flowers.

The waterfall at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. Photo by Tory Paxson, Courtesy of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

TOTALLY BOTANICAL

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay is open for the season, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Maine Days are May 31 to June 2, when anyone with a Maine driver’s license or state ID gets in for free. Ditto for dads/father figures on Father’s Day (June 16). Advance registration is required. With more than 300 acres of gardens and natural spaces, including a waterfall, there will be plenty to see, smell and bask in the scenery.

Here are more things to do in Boothbay

A tour group walks on the boardwalk at Viles Arboretum in Augusta. Joe Phelan/Kennebec Journal

Viles Arboretum is a botanical garden in Augusta with 6 miles of trails and more than 20 botanical collections. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. There are 224 acres with all sorts of flora and fauna to discover. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the visitor center is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Viles Arboretum offers medicinal plant walks, and although the May 18 session is full, you can still register for the June 15 and Sept. 14 events, lead by herbalist, homeopath and flower essence practitioner Debra Bluth. Tickets are $25. Advertisement

The Mount Desert Land & Garden Preserve has four areas to explore on its property in Northeast Harbor: the Asticou Azelea Garden (dawn to dusk daily), the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden (noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday from July 9 to Sept. 8, reservations required), Thuya Garden (dawn to dusk daily, June 15 to Oct. 14) and Little Long Pond Natural Lands (hiking trails and carriage roads open dawn to dusk daily). On June 26, at the Wildflowers of Little Long Pond event, participants can wander around the garden’s fields and forest, spotting wildflowers along the way while practicing how to identify them.

Joyce Saltman, right, and Beth Anisbeck embrace a tree for 60 seconds during a tree hugging event sponsored by Portland Parks and Recreation, at Deering Oaks Park last year. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

TOURS AND MORE

2nd Annual Tree Hugging 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Deering Oaks Park, Portland. portlandmaine.gov The tree hugging is a family-friendly community gathering to celebrate Portland’s many trees. Park ranger Liz Collado will lead a sensory awakening and forest bathing session. Along with tree hugging, there will be a storytime, and you can touch a forestry truck and meet naturalist Noah Querido and Portland city arborist Mark Reiland. Just down the road, you’ll find Fessenden Park, on the corner of Brighton and Deering Avenues. The tulips have arrived, and it’s worth a visit to see them.

McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 24. McLaughlin Garden and Homestead, 97 Main St., South Paris, $5. mclaughlingardens.org You’ll find more than 125 varieties of lilacs at the McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival. Explore on your own or take a guided tour led by a horticulturist. There will also be family-friendly activities, and you can shop for native and unusual plants.

4th annual Woodfords Community Garden Tour 1-4 p.m. June 8. Woodfords Corner Community in Back Cove, Deering Highlands, Oakdale and Deering Center, $20 suggested donation. woodfordscorner.org Presented by Friends of Woodfords Corner, this self-guided tour features at least 10 gardens. As you make your way down the list, you’ll find yourself pleasantly surprised by all of the hidden havens bursting with flowers, plants and impressive yardscaping elements.

Peony Society of Maine 23rd annual Garden Tour 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 8 and 15. Both tours start at 1348 Ohio St., Bangor, $5 donation. peonysocietyofmaine.net You’ll visit multiple gardens in Bangor, Winterport, Ripley and St. Albans, and your senses will be filled with countless peonies. A peony plant will be raffled off at the end of each tour. Advertisement

Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 22. Sagadahoc Preservation Inc., 880 Washington St., Bath, $40. sagadahocpreservation.org The Hidden Gardens of Historic Bath house and garden tour features several homes in North Bath. Every stop on the tour will be a treat for your senses and may motivate you to make some of your own magic when you get back home.

Garden Conservancy Open Garden Days 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 29. Beckett Castle Rose Garden, Singles Road, Cape Elizabeth, $10. gardenconservancy.org You’ll see plenty of roses as well as ocean views at Beckett Castle, which sits right on the water, with views of five lighthouses. The castle was built in 1871, and its rose garden features more than 70 varieties of heirloom roses. A 50-foot stone tower doubles as the rose arbor entrance to the castle.

PICK A PLANT SALE

Tate House Museum’s Annual Plant and Herb Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 18. Tate House Museum, 1267 Westbrook St., Portland, 207-774-6177.  tatehouse.org The wide selection includes perennials divided from the museum’s 18th century reproduction garden. Visitors can also make their own “seed bombs” and get a sneak peak at a new installation by artist Ashley Page from 10 a.m. to noon.

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland Spring Plant S ale 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. May 18, Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, 217 Landing Road, Westbrook, 207-854-9771.  arlgp.org   Perennials, house plants and more will be on sale, and plants that don’t have specific pricing are “name your own fee.” Anyone interested in donating plants or pots to the sale should send a message to [email protected] .

Taking Root Plant Sale 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Tom Settlemire Community Garden, Maurice Drive, Brunswick, 207-729-7694.  btlt.org This annual sale is organized by the Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust. Proceeds benefit the Common Good Garden, which provides food and gardening education for the Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program. Master gardeners will be on hand to help shoppers choose their best options.

Scarborough Land Trust Native Plant Sale and Spring Festival 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 1, Broadturn Farm, 388 Broadturn Road, Scarborough, 207-289-1199.  scarboroughlandtrust.org Visitors will find native plants, food vendors, local artisans, guided nature walks and activities for kids. To preorder plants, visit the Scarborough Land Trust website.

Maine Audubon Society Native Plants Sale and Festival 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., June 8, Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, 207-781-2330.  maineaudubon.org More than 75 species of native wildflowers, shrubs and tree seedlings will be available, along with workshops, info tables and experts.

Staff writer Megan Gray contributed to this report.

Related Headlines

Headed to Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens? Here’s what else to check out in Boothbay

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Korolyov or Korolev is an industrial city in Moscow Oblast, Russia, well known as the cradle of Soviet and Russian space exploration. As of the 2010 Census, its population was 183,402, the largest as a science city. As of 2018, the population was more than 222,000 people. It was known as Kaliningrad from 1938 to 1996 and served as the leading Soviet center for production of anti-tank and air-defense guns. In 1946, in the aftermath of World War II, the artillery plant was reconstructed for production of rockets, launch vehicles, and spacecraft, under the guidance of Russian scientist and academician Sergei Korolev, who envisioned, consolidated and guided the activities of many people in the Soviet space-exploration program. The plant later became known as the RKK Energia; when the Vostok space vehicle was being developed, this research center was designated as NII-88 or POB 989.

More information and contact

Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Korolyov,_Moscow_Oblast

Official Website http://www.korolev.ru/

Coordinates 55°55'13.763" N 37°49'57.464" E

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Korolyov is a mid-sized city in North Moscow Oblast , best known as the "cradle of space exporation," as it was the center of the Soviet space program. It was also a former elite dacha location, a vacation spot for all sorts of famous Russians (e.g., Chekhov, Lenin, Akhmatova, Pasternak, Tsvetaeva, etc.). The city today has become one of the most desirable residential locations outside Moscow.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Take the M8 highway. The town starts right from the highway to the right of it, opposite to Mytishchi .

By bus [ edit ]

Buses 392, 565 and 576 from VDNKh metro station in Moscow, bus 28 from Mytishchi train station (starts on east side, opposite to bus station). Keep in mind jams on M8 for all of these buses, even though they become less severe after opening multilevel traffic interchanges on M8 between Mytishchi and Korolev.

Get around [ edit ]

See [ edit ].

• House-Museum of Vladimir Lenin , ☏ +7 095 519-6265 . 11:00–18:00 .  
• House-Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva .  
• Church of the Birth of the Sacred Bogoroditsy in Kostino . (17th century)  
• Space operation center .  
• Temple Cosmas and Damian .  
• The monument to Sergei Korolev .  

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

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