From national parks to cosmopolitan cities, a cross-country road trip through the United States is a flexible and exciting way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural landmarks. Whether you follow a classic highway like Route 66 or map your own path, the journey offers countless opportunities—from national parks and historic sites to local food scenes and budget-friendly adventures.

A cross country road trip can be an unforgettable experience full of adventure, gorgeous sights, and people from all walks of life. Traveling on the road offers you flexibility to go as far as you’d like and stop whenever you want. 

Cross country travel in the United States is also no small feat–to travel from the east to the west, you’d need to cover over roughly 2,000 miles of road through curving mountains, rolling fields, and waving forests. 

While it takes 4 to 5 days to cross the United States via car, some people recommend 2 to 3 weeks of slower travel to give you breaks from constant driving. A 2 week cross country road trip itinerary can give more ample time to check out parks, interesting towns, and lively cities. The more time the better, as you’ll never run out of things to do on a road trip. 

There are no set rules or mandatory routes for cross country travel, but there are a few different routes that you can find online. Some of these routes begin further north whereas some start your journey in the south. The ideal road trip varies by the season you decide to drive, which route is closest for you, and your destination bucket list.

If you’re still lost and wondering “what road trips near me are best?”, consider some common cross country routes below. 

Common Cross Country Routes 

• I-80 (New York City to San Francisco) – ~2,900 miles
• I-40 (Wilmington, NC to Barstow, CA) – ~2,500 miles 
• I-10 (Jacksonville, FL to Los Angeles) – ~2,400 miles 
• I-70 (Baltimore to Utah), followed by I-15/I-80 to San Francisco – ~2,800 miles 

As you may have noticed, these cross country routes take you on a single highway road through the country. So technically, you can just take any highway down all the way if you like the route of it. 

There’s the classic Route 66, which also takes you through one of the first stretches of highway built in the early 1900s by the National Highway System. 

Called “The Mother Road,” this historic path meanders from Chicago to Santa Monica (John Steinbeck, novelist of The Grapes of Wrath, coined the term in 1939). 

Sites like RoadtripUSA list other road trip options–routes from the Southern Pacific to The Oregon Trail that promise unforgettable stops and incredible sights. 

Road Trip Tips for Driving Cross Country on a Budget 

Gas isn’t cheap and cars can be expensive to fix. When undertaking an epic roadtrip or road trip, it’s best to come up with an effective budget and strategy to prepare for hiccups. 

There’s several approaches to the cheapest way to travel cross country, but a combination of budget accommodations, making meals, and checking out free events/destinations will help keep your costs down. 

Some Reddit users recommended downloading Google Maps offline, investing in an AAA membership, storing a spare jerry can and/or tire, and taking breaks when needed. For things to do in the car, it’s handy to download audiobooks, podcasts, and playlists for those long winding roads with scant cell service. 

National parks and natural vistas are the bread and butter to road trips on the cheap, so be sure to do your research for a national park road trip map.

Top 15 Road Trip Places to Visit 

Depending on your chosen journey, these places may be on the way, out of the way, or just a minor detour from your final destination. But here are some top 15 places you should definitely consider adding to your road trip. 

1. New York, New York  

If you’re kicking off your road trip in New York City, there’s arguably no better place to immerse yourself in the heart of American culture, creativity, and grit. With its layered skyline, ever-rushing crowds, and iconic yellow taxis, NYC pulses with electric energy.

There’s incredible museums such as the The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), Museum of Modern Art (MoMa), Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. 

For more budget-friendly options, check out “NYC for Free” guides or time your visit with events listed through the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation. Free summer concerts, Shakespeare in the Park, and movie screenings in Bryant Park make it easy to experience the city without draining your wallet.

Hop on the Staten Island Ferry for a free view of the Statue of Liberty or explore Brooklyn’s Prospect Park for a quieter, more local experience. And of course, there’s Times Square—overwhelming and crowded, but still dazzling.

The sight of the skyline in your rearview mirror as you start your journey westward is a road trip moment you won’t forget.

2. Philadelphia, PA

Just two hours south of New York lies the cradle of American democracy. Philadelphia’s Old City, with its cobblestone streets and colonial buildings, brings the revolutionary era to life.

Visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Benjamin Franklin Museum to brush up on your early American history. Then switch gears with a bite of a Philly cheesesteak from Pat’s or Geno’s—or skip the rivalry and try Dalessandro’s for a local favorite.

Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square, recently named one of the best global hotels by Condé Nast Traveler, offers an upscale stay in one of the city’s most charming districts.

If you're on a budget, don’t miss the FREE First Sundays at the Barnes Foundation or walk the Schuylkill River Trail for city views and public art.

3. Washington, DC

A few hours further south, Washington, DC is the living museum of the United States.

The National Mall is home to the Smithsonian museums, most of which are completely free. From the Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the breadth of knowledge here is stunning.

For a low-cost experience, pack a picnic on the National Mall or rent a scooter to see the monuments by night when they’re beautifully lit and less crowded.

Whether you're a political junkie, art lover, or history buff, DC leaves a lasting impression.

4. Chicago, IL

As you make your way westward, a stop in Chicago means experiencing architectural beauty, breezy lakefront views on Lake Michigan, and of course, the iconic deep-dish pizza.

Millennium Park’s “Cloud Gate” (aka “The Bean”) and the Art Institute of Chicago are must-visits. Architecture lovers should take a river cruise to learn about the city's architectural innovation.

If you're tight on budget, Secret Chicago has an excellent guide to free activities including Lincoln Park Zoo, free summer concerts at Grant Park, and public art scattered throughout the Loop.

And yes, try the pizza—but also the Italian beef sandwiches, Garrett’s popcorn, and neighborhood food festivals if you catch one.

5. St. Louis, MO

Marking the symbolic start of the West, St. Louis offers a slower pace and rich cultural layers. The Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the U.S., provides breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline.

Forest Park rivals NYC’s Central Park in size and offers free access to the St. Louis Art Museum, Science Center, and Zoo.

This city blends Midwest charm with a bit of Southern flair—especially in neighborhoods like Soulard, famous for its blues bars and farmer’s market.

6. Kansas City, MO

Kansas City is known for two things that belong on any road trip bucket list: incredible BBQ and authentic jazz.

Grab brisket or burnt ends at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que or Q39 for a sit-down experience. Then head to the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District, where live music fills the air almost every night.

Don’t skip the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art or the City Market, where you can grab global eats while strolling through local vendors. Hotel KC and Crossroads Hotel are some popular options for accomodations. 

7. Denver, CO

As you inch closer to the Rocky Mountains, Denver provides an exciting mix of modern city life and outdoor adventure.

Explore Larimer Square or catch a concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, nestled between natural sandstone monoliths. Craft beer fans will be in heaven—Denver has more breweries per capita than nearly any other city.

This is a great restocking stop before the rugged terrain ahead.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Just a short drive from Denver, this national park is the epitome of alpine beauty. Trail Ridge Road—one of the highest paved roads in the U.S.—offers panoramic mountain views that seem to stretch forever.

Hike to Emerald Lake or Moraine Park, or keep it casual with scenic pull-offs perfect for wildlife photography. Elk, bighorn sheep, and marmots are common sights.

If you're camping, make sure to book well in advance.

9. Arches National Park, UT

With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, this otherworldly park feels like Mars on Earth. Delicate Arch is the poster child of Utah tourism, but spots like Double Arch and Landscape Arch are equally jaw-dropping.

Moab is the closest town and offers a laid-back, adventure-town vibe with local cafés, bike rentals, and plenty of hiking stores.

Plan your visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and soak in the magical desert light.

10. Monument Valley, UT/AZ

Driving through Monument Valley feels like flipping through a John Ford film reel. Towering red rock buttes rise dramatically from the desert floor, and the 17-mile Valley Drive offers some of the most iconic views in the Southwest.

To get the full story, book a Navajo-guided tour to learn about the land’s cultural and spiritual significance. Navajo Guided Tour Service provides 1.5 hour to all day tours depending on how much you want to soak in the experience. 

11. Santa Fe, NM 

A hub of Indigenous and Southwestern culture, Santa Fe is a sensory experience. The scent of pinon wood in the air, the earthy tones of adobe buildings, and the vibrant art galleries all make it feel like a world apart.

Visit Canyon Road for art galleries, try green chile enchiladas, and explore the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture.

12. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

No list is complete without the Grand Canyon. Whether you visit the South Rim or opt for the quieter North Rim, this geologic marvel is absolutely humbling.

Popular hikes include Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail, or you can simply drive along Desert View Drive for multiple viewpoints.

Don’t forget to stay for sunset—it’s a soul-stirring experience. 

13. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

A favorite for campers, stargazers, and offbeat adventurers, Joshua Tree feels mystical. The meeting point of the Mojave and Colorado deserts creates unique flora, dramatic rock formations, and some of the clearest night skies in the country.

Visit Hidden Valley, climb Skull Rock, or explore Pioneertown nearby.

14. Los Angeles, CA

You’ve hit the coast! LA is the cultural capital of the West Coast with its diverse neighborhoods, beaches, street tacos, and all things Hollywood.

Whether you check out Venice Beach or Griffith Park, there’s plenty to soak in before continuing up the Pacific. Eat your way through Koreatown, explore the Getty, and hike up to the Griffith Observatory for views of the Hollywood Sign.

15. San Francisco, CA

End your trip with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, a walk through the hills of colorful neighborhoods, and seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf.

From Haight-Ashbury to Alcatraz Island, it’s a rich final chapter to your cross-country road trip. If you time your trip right, you might even catch the rolling fog tumbling over the hills—a perfect poetic ending to your journey.