Settings -
£
$
¥
$
¥
HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesWest USACaliforniaSouthwest Classic
canyonlands-national-park-2584120_1920.jpg

Southwest Classic Road Trip

Los Angeles - Barstow - Death Valley N.P. - Las Vegas - Zion N.P. - Bryce Canyon N.P. - Capitol Reef N.P. - Arches N.P. - Canyonlands N.P. - Mesa Verde N.P. - Taos - Santa Fe - Albuquerque - Antelope Canyon - Grand Canyon Village - Lake Havasu City - Joshua Tree N.P. - San Diego

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Historical sites Historical sites
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Southwest Classic Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages18 km4,746 h/stage3.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Southwest Classic Road Trip in California?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 945EUR drive & more 638EUR sleep & more 1,661EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,811EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,756EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,134EUR drive & more 850EUR sleep & more 2,497EUR eat & more 2,268EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,615EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,749EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,890EUR drive & more 1,163EUR sleep & more 4,158EUR eat & more 3,024EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 8,345EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 10,235EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 4,725EUR drive & more 1,288EUR sleep & more 1,155EUR eat & more 1,512EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,955EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,680EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
Share this link.

Southwest Classic Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Southwest Classic Road Trip. This route starts in Los Angeles, California and takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and monuments in the United States. From the desert vistas of Barstow to the bright lights of Las Vegas, you will be amazed at the diversity of this 4746 km journey. You can experience the grandeur of Bryce Canyon National Park, explore the red rock formations of Arches National Park, and uncover the archaeological treasures of Mesa Verde National Park. All this and more awaits you on this 21-day road trip. The best time to take this road trip is between April and October, when the weather is mild and the roads are in excellent condition. However, be aware that there are some curvy and narrow roads along the way, and seasonal road closures may occur due to inclement weather. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, but it is important to note that it does require a high budget. However, the memories and experiences that you will make will be worth it. As you travel through these UNESCO Heritage monuments, you will be sure to create a lifetime of unforgettable memories.
number of days 21 number of days
route length 4,746 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Los Angeles

Distance 4,746 km Driving time 57.5 h Pace: fast 1,423.7 kWh Airports LAX , SNA
[detailsContainer]
Los Angeles, California is the perfect starting point for the Southwest Classic Road Trip. Home to the iconic Hollywood sign, its reputation as the entertainment capital of the world precedes it. However, the city has much more to offer than just its movie stars. From its modern art galleries to its bustling nightlife, Los Angeles is a city that will keep you coming back for more. Of course, no visit would be complete without a trip to the stunning beaches. From the sunny shores of Santa Monica to the secluded coves of Malibu, the beaches of Los Angeles are a great way to spend a day. For those traveling by air, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest international airport. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to get started on the road. From there, the possibilities are endless. From the incredible views of the Hollywood Hills to the iconic architecture of Downtown Los Angeles, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s a day trip to the Griffith Park Observatory or a night out in Hollywood, Los Angeles is a city full of surprises. So make sure to get your camera ready and enjoy all that Los Angeles has to offer.

1 Los Angeles - Barstow

Distance 185 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: fast 55.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to hit the road for a memorable road trip starting in Los Angeles, United States and ending in Barstow? Your journey will cover a total distance of 185 km and will take approximately three hours. On the way, you will pass through many unique and interesting places. Visit the iconic Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stop by the historic Union Station and the La Brea Tar Pits. Explore the LA County Museum of Art, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum. You can also take a detour to the famous Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Continue your journey and make sure to stop at the Calico Ghost Town, an old mining town that has been turned into a living history museum. Marvel at the natural wonders of the Mojave National Preserve, a great place for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and sightseeing. Finally, end your journey in Barstow, a town that offers many historical sites and attractions. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Happy travels!

2 Barstow - Death Valley N.P.

Distance 316 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 94.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Let your road trip begin in Barstow on the way to Death Valley National Park! With only 316 km to cover and a driving time of less than 4 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore the attractions along the way. Get ready for a scenic drive full of attractions and take in the view of the desert landscape. Start your trip by visiting the historic Barstow Harvey House, a museum and restaurant showcasing the legacy of the Harvey Company. Then, take a trip to Kelso Dunes, the largest dunes in the Mojave Desert, for a breathtaking view of the area's unique sand formations. As you make your way to Death Valley National Park, make sure to stop by the Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa to experience the natural mineral springs and explore the area's geological wonders. Finally, end your journey at the National Park, where you can explore the various canyons, mountains and lakes. With so much to explore, you'll be sure to have a great time! For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

3 Death Valley N.P. - Las Vegas

Distance 197 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 59.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road-trip stage from Death Valley National Park to Las Vegas, Nevada! This 197 km drive will take you less than three hours, and it is only one stage of a greater journey. As you drive along the route, take a moment to admire the breathtaking landscapes of Death Valley, the lowest, hottest, and driest place in North America. Be sure to stop at the Ubehebe Crater, the largest volcanic crater in the park, as well as Badwater Basin, the lowest elevation point in the Western Hemisphere! Continue your journey to Las Vegas, and don’t miss the chance to explore the historic sites, scenic roads and breathtaking views along the way. Be sure to make a stop at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the perfect place to take some pictures and admire the stunning red rocks. When you arrive in Las Vegas, take some time to explore the city. Visit the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Fremont Street Experience with its dazzling light show, and the nearby Hoover Dam. Don’t forget to check out the Neon Museum and the Mob Museum to learn about the city’s history. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

4 Las Vegas - Zion N.P.

Distance 257 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 77.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in the dazzling Las Vegas and ending in the breathtaking Zion National Park? This 257 km (3 hours) journey will take you through some of the most scenic roads in the United States. You'll pass through the Mojave Desert and the Virgin River Gorge, as well as some historic sites along the way. In Las Vegas, you can explore the iconic Strip and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. Once you leave the city, you'll get to experience the stunning desert scenery and the views of the Colorado Plateau. As you drive, make sure to take some time to admire the Joshua trees and the colorful rock formations that line the road. When you reach Zion National Park, you can explore the incredible red rock canyons, the majestic waterfalls, and the lush green meadows. There are plenty of activities to do, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. You can also take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and take in the breathtaking views of the park's landscapes. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Zion N.P. - Bryce Canyon N.P.

Distance 139 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: fast 41.7 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to embark on a breathtaking road trip from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park? This 139 km-long journey takes less than two hours and offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the two parks. Start your journey in Zion National Park, where you can take in the majestic views of its sandstone cliffs and diverse wildlife. Don’t forget to take a hike along the Virgin River or enjoy the breathtaking views from the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Continue your journey to Bryce Canyon National Park, where the red rock formations and hoodoos will leave you in awe. Enjoy a guided tour or explore the park on your own. Make sure to spend some time admiring the spectacular views of Bryce Point, Inspiration Point and the Amphitheater. As you drive, keep an eye out for the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads to make your journey even more enjoyable. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Let the journey begin!

6 Bryce Canyon N.P. - Capitol Reef N.P.

Distance 194 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: fast 58.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park! This 194-kilometer journey takes less than three hours and offers some of the most spectacular views in the world. From Bryce Canyon's iconic hoodoos to Capitol Reef's mesmerizing Waterpocket Fold, you will be captivated by the stunning landscapes along the way. As you drive, keep an eye out for the breathtaking scenery, including the lush forests of Dixie National Forest and the picturesque red rocks of Red Canyon. Once you arrive in Capitol Reef, you won't want to miss out on the amazing attractions it has to offer. Hike through the park's canyons and explore its picturesque rock formations. Visit the historic Gifford House and be sure to take a walk through Fruita, the park's charming orchard. There is so much to see and do! For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

7 Capitol Reef N.P. - Arches N.P.

Distance 236 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: fast 70.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a captivating road trip from Capitol Reef National Park to Arches National Park! This scenic drive of just 236 km will take you less than 3 hours, and along the way, you'll be able to appreciate the picturesque landscapes and historical sites. Be aware that some sections of the route are very winding, and in some you will find narrow roads. Make sure to take your time and pay attention to the beautiful sights! Start your journey at Capitol Reef National Park, where you can explore the majestic Waterpocket Fold, a feature created by millions of years of erosion. Visit the historic Gifford House, and don't miss the Fruita Historic District, with its 19th-century orchards. Continue your journey to Arches National Park, where you can admire more than 2000 sandstone arches, as well as the iconic Delicate Arch. Explore the Park Avenue area, with its spectacular redrock formations, and make sure to take time for some walking and hiking. This is just one of the stages of an amazing road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don't hesitate and start planning your adventure now!

8 Arches N.P. - Canyonlands N.P.

Distance 128 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: fast 38.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Arches National Park to Canyonlands National Park? This route is 128km long and will take you less than 2 hours to complete, so it’s perfect for a day excursion. Along the way, you’ll be able to explore some of the most incredible landscapes in the country. Starting in Arches, don’t miss the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll through the Park Avenue trail, an easy hike with spectacular views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the many sandstone arches for which the park is known, such as Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. After Arches, you’ll be heading to Canyonlands National Park. Here, you can explore the sheer cliffs and deep canyons of the Island in the Sky district. Be sure to check out the Mesa Arch and Grand View Point Overlook for some of the most incredible views in the world. As you drive along, keep your eyes peeled for historical sites and scenic roads. You never know what you’ll find! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your trip!

9 Canyonlands N.P. - Mesa Verde N.P.

Distance 236 km Driving time 3.1 h Pace: fast 70.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Canyonlands National Park to Mesa Verde National Park! This 236 km drive will take you less than 3 hours and along the way you will find some of the most beautiful and interesting sites in the region. As you journey along, keep an eye out for some of the historical sites, scenic roads and UNESCO Heritage sites. You will also be able to witness the stunning beauty of the Colorado Plateau. You will be able to find out more about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

10 Mesa Verde N.P. - Taos

Distance 417 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: fast 125.2 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Get ready for an unforgettable road trip! Starting in Mesa Verde National Park, the 417 km journey to Taos will take you less than 6 hours. Along the way, you will discover some amazing UNESCO Heritage sites, as well as breathtaking views as you drive through winding roads. Make sure to take plenty of photos to remember your journey! To make your trip even more special, take some time to explore the local attractions. In Mesa Verde National Park, you can explore the ancient dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people and see the breathtaking views of the canyon from the overlook. On your way to Taos, you can stop at the Colorado National Monument and the Hovenweep National Monument, both of which offer spectacular views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So pack your bags and hit the road! Enjoy your trip!

11 Taos - Santa Fe

Distance 113 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: fast 33.8 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues scenic road !en!generator.stage-attribute.SeasonalClosure! sections of steep road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Get ready for an amazing road trip from Taos to Santa Fe, United States! This 113 km journey will take you less than 2 hours and there is so much to see along the way. You can explore the historical sites, take in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the winding roads. You should also be aware that some sections may be closed seasonally, and there are steep ramps along the route. During this trip, you'll pass by several UNESCO Heritage sites, so make sure to take plenty of pictures! You'll also find many restaurants, campsites, and accommodation options to help make your journey more enjoyable. Keep an eye out for the many winding roads, too. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore Taos and Santa Fe! And remember, you can find more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary of this stage.

12 Santa Fe - Albuquerque

Distance 102 km Driving time 1.1 h Pace: fast 30.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Take a road trip from Santa Fe to Albuquerque and explore the beauty of New Mexico. You will travel 102 km in less than 2 hours and experience some of the most interesting places in the region. Your journey starts in Santa Fe, the oldest capital in the United States. Visit the Palace of the Governors, which was built in 1610 and is now part of the New Mexico History Museum. The Loretto Chapel is also a must-see, with its beautiful spiral staircase. As you travel to Albuquerque, make sure to keep your eyes open for the historical sites that line the highway. Stop at the Jemez Historic Site to explore the ruins of the Pueblo Indians, and take a break at the Petroglyph National Monument to admire the ancient rock art. Finally, arrive in Albuquerque, the largest city in the state of New Mexico. Visit the Old Town area, where you will find the San Felipe de Neri Church and the historic adobe buildings. Be sure to check out the ABQ BioPark, which includes the Rio Grande Zoo, the Albuquerque Aquarium, and the Botanic Garden. This is just one stage of your journey, and there is much more to explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

13 Albuquerque - Antelope Canyon

Distance 834 km Driving time 9.5 h Pace: fast 250.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites scenic road
[detailsContainer]
Greetings, road-trippers! Let us embark on a journey through the Southwest of the United States. Our trip starts in Albuquerque, and takes us on a 834 km route through the Petrified Forest National Park and Canyon de Chelly, all the way to Antelope Canyon. Along the way, you will get to explore some of the most interesting places in the US. The Petrified Forest National Park is home to some of the most beautiful and unique geological formations. Here, you can observe fossils of ancient trees, as well as the remains of creatures that lived in the area millions of years ago. Canyon de Chelly is a magical place, with its towering sandstone cliffs, red rock canyons and picturesque views. Here, you can also explore the ruins of ancient dwellings and learn about the Navajo culture. Finally, we reach Antelope Canyon, a remarkable natural wonder. This is a place of stunning beauty, with its majestic curves and stunning colors. Here, you can take a guided tour to explore the canyon and its unique formations. Our journey takes fewer than 10 hours of driving and is sure to offer plenty of interesting experiences. Make sure to keep your eyes open for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Happy travels!

14 Antelope Canyon - Grand Canyon Village

Distance 233 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 70.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 233 km-long road trip from Antelope Canyon to Grand Canyon Village, and let the beauty of the majestic landscapes of Arizona take your breath away! The route will take you less than 3 hours to complete and will pass some of the most picturesque landscapes of the state, so don't forget to snap some photos! At some points the road will become very winding, so be sure to keep an eye on the road. Along the way, you will pass some of the UNESCO Heritage Sites, so be sure to check them out too. In the end, you will arrive at the Grand Canyon Village, where you can find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" section of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

15 Grand Canyon Village - Lake Havasu City

Distance 372 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: fast 111.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a great road trip? Then let's start with Grand Canyon Village, located in the United States. From there, you will drive 372 km to Lake Havasu City, and it will take less than four hours. Along the way, you will get to see some of the most amazing landscapes and historical sites. The Grand Canyon itself is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it's definitely worth a visit. As you drive, you will be able to admire the beauty of the majestic Colorado Plateau. Grand Canyon National Park is also an amazing place for a stroll and some great photographs. On your way to Lake Havasu City, you can stop and explore the stunning Havasu National Wildlife Refuge and other small towns. Finally, you will arrive in Lake Havasu City, a great place for camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please check the Itinerary. Enjoy your road trip!

16 Lake Havasu City - Joshua Tree N.P.

Distance 247 km Driving time 3.0 h Pace: fast 74.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! Are you ready for an epic journey from Lake Havasu City to Joshua Tree National Park? This 247km drive offers a stunning landscape of mountains, deserts, and cacti, and takes less than 3 hours. From Lake Havasu City, you can visit the London Bridge, Lake Havasu State Park, and the Lake Havasu Museum of History, among other attractions. Then, you're off to Joshua Tree N.P., a place of surreal beauty, with its iconic Joshua Trees and towering rock formations. Here, you can explore the Cholla Cactus Garden, the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, Keys View, and Barker Dam. On your way, keep an eye out for historical sites, as well as wildlife such as bighorn sheep, coyotes, and roadrunners. Don't forget to take time to appreciate the beauty of the desert. For more information, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Now, hit the road and have fun!

17 Joshua Tree N.P. - San Diego

Distance 348 km Driving time 4.8 h Pace: fast 104.3 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
[detailsContainer]
Start your road trip adventure in Joshua Tree National Park, an amazing desert oasis in the United States! From the iconic Joshua trees to the stunning rock formations, you'll find plenty of breathtaking sights to take in. Take a hike and explore the park's many trails, or simply relax and enjoy the views. After that, head south to San Diego, a coastal city with plenty of attractions. Along the way, make sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. The drive is only 348 km and takes less than five hours, but in some sections the road is very winding, so please drive carefully. In other sections, the road may be narrow, so make sure to pay attention to the signs. By the time you reach San Diego, you'll have experienced a great adventure! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

18 San Diego - Los Angeles

Distance 193 km Driving time 2.3 h Pace: fast 57.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site accommodation options camper parking available camping sites EV charging station dining venues
[detailsContainer]
Take a road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles and explore the best of both cities! You’ll only need to drive 193 km (fewer than 3 hours) to reach your destination. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to explore some of the most renowned attractions of Southern California. Start your journey in San Diego, home to the iconic Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. As you drive through the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge, take in the stunning views of the city skyline. After crossing the bridge, make sure to stop at La Jolla Cove to marvel at the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Once you reach Los Angeles, explore the city’s famous Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as the iconic Hollywood Sign. Don’t forget to take a selfie at the Griffith Observatory and enjoy the spectacular views of the city. And don’t forget to visit the Universal Studios Hollywood amusement park. For the foodies, don’t miss a chance to try out the delicious tacos at the Olvera Street. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head out for an unforgettable road trip!

  Los Angeles

[detailsContainer]
Los Angeles, the quintessential American city, is the perfect destination to end a Southwest Classic Road Trip. From the iconic Hollywood Sign and Universal Studios Hollywood to the stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains, this city has something for everyone. The city is full of cultural attractions, including the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Griffith Observatory. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art are also must-visits. For outdoor lovers, the Topanga State Park, the Sepulveda Basin Wildlife Reserve, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are just a few of the many outdoor activities available. For a unique experience, take a tour of the Warner Bros. Studios and visit the iconic locations used in popular films and television shows. To get a true taste of the city, explore the diverse neighborhoods of Los Angeles, from the hipster bars of Silver Lake to the trendy boutiques of West Hollywood. For a convenient way to get around, rent a car or take advantage of the city’s public transportation system. The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX IATA code) is the closest international airport. Los Angeles is the perfect destination for a Southwest Classic Road Trip. With its warm weather, vibrant culture, and stunning views, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular cities in the United States.

Southwest Classic Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the epic Southwest Classic Road Trip, a journey that unveils the stunning diversity of the American landscape. Spanning over 4746 kilometers and taking approximately 21 days to complete, this route begins in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California, and winds through some of the most breathtaking scenery and remarkable landmarks the United States has to offer. From the arid expanses of desert to the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas and the awe-inspiring formations of national parks, this Road Trip is a celebration of natural and man-made wonders alike.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Los Angeles: Kick off your adventure in this dynamic metropolis, home to Hollywood, renowned museums, and a multicultural culinary scene.
  • Barstow: Experience the Mojave Desert's austere allure and visit the Route 66 Mother Road Museum.
  • Las Vegas: Delve into the glitz and glamour of the Entertainment Capital of the World, with its casinos, shows, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Bryce Canyon National Park: Stand in awe of the amphitheaters filled with colorful hoodoos, and try to catch a sunrise or sunset for a truly magical view.
  • Arches National Park: Wander through over 2,000 natural stone arches and be sure to visit the iconic Delicate Arch at sunset.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: Step back in time with a tour of the well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient cultures.

Best Time to Go:

Travel between April and October to take full advantage of the milder weather and enjoy the Road Trip with fewer travel interruptions and better access to the parks' full offerings.

Potential Risks:

  • Winding and narrow Roads in some areas can be challenging, especially for less experienced drivers.
  • Unexpected weather conditions can lead to seasonal Road closures, particularly at higher elevations, so it's wise to check forecasts and park alerts.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • This journey requires a significant budget, but the experiences are priceless, from luxury urban accommodations to rustic stays in the heart of nature.
  • The itinerary includes several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Taos Pueblo near the end of the Trip.
  • Diverse driving conditions will keep you alert and engaged, from bustling city freeways to serene stretches of national park Roads. It's advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

A good choice for:

With its rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures, the Southwest Classic Road Trip is more than just a vacation; it's an exploration of America's heart and soul. Whether you're drawn to the thrill of urban jungles or the tranquility of natural sanctuaries, this journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Facts for safer driving in California

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

Recommended trips

West Route 66 Road Trip West Route 66 Road Trip
West Route 66 Road Trip
North America - United States
3,903 km 92 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Utah Road Trip Utah Road Trip
Utah Road Trip
North America - United States
2,684 km 74 km/h 16 days roadtrip
Skyway Road Trip Skyway Road Trip
Skyway Road Trip
North America - United States
830 km 70 km/h 5 days roadtrip
West USA Road Trip West USA Road Trip
West USA Road Trip
North America - United States
5,872 km 77 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip
Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip
North America - United States
6,044 km 87 km/h 22 days roadtrip
Ebbetts Pass Panoramic Road Ebbetts Pass Panoramic Road
Ebbetts Pass Panoramic Road
North America - United States
97 km 59 km/h 1 days scenic