Theme Parks Road Trip Itinerary
This Theme Parks Road Trip takes you from Los Angeles to San Diego in the United States. The 422km journey, which is best taken over 5 days, takes you through the towns of Santa Clarita, Hollywood, and Carlsbad. Along the way, you'll be able to experience some of the best theme parks in the US, and take in some spectacular beaches.
The best time of year to drive this route is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the roads are in excellent condition. There are plenty of attractions to enjoy along the way, from the Universal Studios Hollywood to LEGOLAND in Carlsbad.
This road trip is perfect for everyone, from experienced drivers to those who are just starting out. However, it is important to note that it can be quite costly, so make sure you plan accordingly.
No matter what your budget is, this Theme Parks Road Trip is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.
5
number of days
422 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Los Angeles
Distance 422 km
Driving time 7.5 h
Pace: modest
109.6 kWh
Airports
LAX
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Los Angeles is an iconic city located in the United States and is an excellent starting point for the "Theme Parks Road Trip". Los Angeles is a city of creative energy, with a vibrant nightlife and a world-renowned culture. The streets are alive with street art, music and the energy of people from all over the world. For those looking to explore the city, the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory, and the Getty Center are popular destinations. It's also home to Universal Studios Hollywood, the Chinese Theatre, and the Santa Monica Pier.
When traveling to Los Angeles for the "Theme Parks Road Trip" by air, the closest international airport is Los Angeles International Airport (IATA: LAX). There are car rental services available at the airport to facilitate the journey. For those looking to explore the city, the Los Angeles Metro Rail provides reliable public transportation.
Los Angeles is a great starting point for a "Theme Parks Road Trip", with plenty to explore before venturing out. With its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and its many attractions, Los Angeles is the perfect place to begin your journey.
1
Los Angeles
- Santa Monica
- Santa Clarita
Distance 153 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
39.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Los Angeles to Santa Clarita road trip! This scenic route will take you through the beautiful cities of Santa Monica and Santa Clarita. In just under 3 hours and 95 miles, you can experience some of the best attractions in the area.
Start your journey in Los Angeles and take a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier. You can take in the sights of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. Then, head to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area for a hike or a bike ride.
From there, you can make your way to Santa Clarita. Explore the historic sites and picturesque landscapes of the area. Check out the William S. Hart Park and Museum, the Placerita Canyon Nature Center, and the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park.
As you travel along this route, be sure to take in the views of the California coastline and the San Gabriel Mountains. You can also stop at the many restaurants, shops, and other attractions along the way.
For more information on attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of the road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Santa Clarita - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Santa Clarita
- Universal City
Distance 42 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
12.5 kWh
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Start your road trip from Santa Clarita, United States and enjoy a 26mi drive to Universal City. This trip will take you less than 1 hour and will take you to some of the most interesting places in the area.
In Santa Clarita, you can visit the Placerita Canyon Nature Center, a great place to observe the local wildlife and learn about the history of the area. You can also take a break and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Santa Clarita Woodlands Park.
As you continue your journey, you can stop at the Universal CityWalk and explore the entertainment options it offers. Enjoy a movie, take a stroll in the area, and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants it has to offer.
Finally, your journey ends at Universal City. Here, you can explore Universal Studios Hollywood, a theme park filled with thrilling rides and attractions. Or, you can take a stroll in the Universal CityWalk and enjoy the various shops and restaurants it has to offer.
This is only one stage of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Universal City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Universal City
- Hollywood
Distance 9 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: slow
2.0 kWh
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Welcome to the Universal City to Hollywood road trip stage! This 5mi journey through the heart of Los Angeles will take you fewer than 1 hour, and you will be able to experience some of the most iconic places of the city.
Start your journey in Universal City, home to Universal Studios Hollywood, one of the most popular theme parks in the world. Here, you can take a studio tour, explore the world-famous Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and experience the thrills of roller coasters like the Revenge of the Mummy.
Continue your drive to Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world. Here, you can visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre, where some of the most famous Hollywood movies have premiered. Don't forget to take a picture with the Hollywood Sign too!
This is just one of the stages of your journey, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Hollywood - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Hollywood
- Anaheim
Distance 53 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: modest
13.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Hollywood to Anaheim road trip stage! Get ready for a fun and exciting journey that will take you from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the sunny city of Anaheim. This 33mi route takes less than one hour to drive, so you can easily fit in some of the best attractions that these cities have to offer.
Start your journey in Hollywood, the home of the stars. Visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theater, and the Hollywood Sign. Get a taste of the celebrity life and take a picture of the Hollywood Sign while you’re there.
Then, head to Anaheim, known for its theme parks. Visit the Disneyland Resort, the happiest place on Earth, and Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can explore the world of movies. Take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel at Knott’s Berry Farm, or take a break at the Anaheim GardenWalk.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a great time!
Anaheim - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Anaheim
- Carlsbad
Distance 118 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: modest
30.7 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready to experience the most amazing 73mi journey from Anaheim to Carlsbad! This is one of the stages of an unforgettable tour that you will never forget.
Start your journey from the exciting Anaheim, home to the Disneyland Resort, the iconic Angels Stadium, and the Honda Center. The city is also known for its amazing shopping options and vibrant nightlife.
Then, head to the beautiful city of Carlsbad. It is home to the LEGOLAND California Resort, a popular destination for families. The city is also known for its stunning beaches, such as Carlsbad State Beach and Tamarack Beach.
You can reach your destination in fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you can also visit the picturesque city of San Clemente and the beautiful city of Oceanside, known for its beautiful harbor.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy this amazing journey!
Carlsbad - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Carlsbad - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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6
Carlsbad
- San Diego
Distance 48 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
14.4 kWh
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Start your road trip from Carlsbad, a coastal city in California, United States. On your way to San Diego, you’ll get to experience some of the most beautiful sights of the area. Stop at the Carlsbad Flower Fields, a fifty-acre site with a rainbow of colors from the flowers in bloom. Don’t forget to take some time to explore the Carlsbad State Beach, a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and other beach activities. As you drive along the coast, you’ll get to see the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a stunning landscape with rare trees, trails, and a beach.
Continue your drive on to La Jolla, a picturesque coastal town with plenty of attractions. Take a walk around the La Jolla Cove, a popular spot for snorkeling and kayaking, and admire the stunning cliffs and the sea lions. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the La Jolla Shores Park and explore the La Jolla Caves.
Your final destination is San Diego, the birthplace of California. Here you can explore the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway Museum, and the Balboa Park. Don’t miss out on the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, the birthplace of California, and the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
This road trip from Carlsbad to San Diego is only 30 miles and will take you less than an hour to complete. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the itinerary of this stage.
San Diego - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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San Diego
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San Diego is the perfect end point for your "Theme Parks Road Trip". Located in Southern California, San Diego is a vibrant city with something for everyone. It's a great place to relax after a journey on the open road.
San Diego is home to world-renowned theme parks, like SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo. If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, you can wander along the boardwalk at Mission Beach or take a leisurely stroll through Balboa Park. You can also take a tour of historic Old Town, or take a harbor cruise for some amazing views of the city.
San Diego is also known for its incredible food scene. From award-winning restaurants to local taco stands, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s appetite. And don’t forget the craft breweries! San Diego is home to some of the best beer in the country.
If you’re traveling by air, San Diego International Airport (IATA: SAN) is the closest airport with flights to destinations around the world. It’s just minutes from downtown and easy to access from the many highways and freeways in the area.
So hop in the car and take the “Theme Parks Road Trip” all the way to San Diego. You’ll be glad you did when you experience all the city has to offer.
San Diego - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Theme Parks Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Los Angeles
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End:
San Diego
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Distance:
422 km
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Stay:
5 days
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Getting there:
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embarking on a Theme Parks Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is a quintessential Californian adventure, stretching across 422km (262 miles) and ideally spanning 5 days. This journey not only offers adrenaline rushes at some of America's most iconic amusement parks but also the opportunity to soak in the scenic beauty of golden beaches and vibrant coastal cities.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Santa Clarita: This city is adrenaline central, boasting Six Flags Magic Mountain, which holds the world record for the most roller coasters in an amusement park.
- Hollywood: Dive into the glitz and glamour of the film industry at Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can explore real movie sets and experience thrilling rides based on your favorite blockbusters.
- Anaheim: Home to the Disneyland Resort, the original Disney theme park envisioned by Walt Disney himself, offering a magical experience for all ages.
- Carlsbad: Perfect for families, LEGOLAND California Resort features interactive rides, shows, and a miniature park made from millions of LEGO bricks.
- Additional coastal attractions and beaches along the route offer a chance to unwind and enjoy California's famed surf and sand.
Best Time to Go:
The best time for this Road Trip is during the summer months, when the weather is typically warm and sunny, providing ideal conditions for both theme park enjoyment and beach relaxation.
Potential Risks:
- High costs can be expected for theme park admission, food, souvenirs, and accommodations, so budgeting is crucial.
- Traffic congestion is common, especially around Los Angeles and San Diego; planning your travel times can help avoid the worst of it.
- Southern California's weather is generally mild, but it can be unpredictable, with the potential for heat waves or coastal fog.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Early planning for accommodations and purchasing theme park tickets in advance can save money and time.
- Skip-the-line passes can be a wise investment to maximize your time at attractions.
- Staying hydrated and using sun protection are essential in California's sunny climate.
- Always check the latest travel advisories and Road conditions before setting off on your Trip.
A good choice for:
This Theme Parks Road Trip is an exhilarating expedition laden with thrills, spills, and cherished moments, appealing to both the adventurous and those seeking the nostalgia of childhood. While it can be a pricey endeavor, smart planning and budgeting can lead to an experience that's rich in entertainment and memories.
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