road trip la to texas

Explore exciting airdrop projects and grab your chance to earn up to $1000.

roadtripfrom.com

Los Angeles To Dallas Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide

Los Angeles to Dallas road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 1,436 miles of Los Angeles to Dallas drive takes around 20 hours and 50 mins without stops.

This article includes 27 tips that turn your Los Angeles to Dallas drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Dallas

On the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top nine hotels on the Los Angeles – Dallas route!

1. Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino

Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. Driving from Los Angeles to Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino might take around 1 hour .

Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is a great option for travelers looking for a convenient and safe stay while road-tripping from Los Angeles to Dallas. The hotel is located in San Bernardino’s Hospitality Lane business district and is just 1.5 miles from the hospital, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers. The rooms were clean, and the breakfast area was wonderful, with a variety of hot and cold options. Additionally, the hotel is just 25 minutes from the airport and is close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s also just a short drive away from Loma Linda University Medical Center, the National Orange Show Events Center, and is only 40 minutes from Big Bear Lake. With a free hot breakfast buffet and free tea and coffee available in the lobby, Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is a great place to rest during your journey.

Check the Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino, one of the best hotels in San Bernardino, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley

Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Dallas from Los Angeles is Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the hotel is 384 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 5 hours and 48 mins to drive.

Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley is a must-stay destination for road-trippers traveling from Los Angeles to Dallas. The staff at check-in were top-notch, making guests feel welcome and appreciated from the moment they arrive. The rooms were spacious and incredibly clean, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Breakfast at the hotel was delightful, with guests enjoying a variety of options to start their day off right. One of the highlights of the stay was the generous happy hour, offering complimentary drinks and appetizers, making it a great opportunity to relax and unwind after a long day on the road. With a prime location and outstanding amenities, Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley is the perfect choice for any traveler looking for a comfortable and convenient stopover.

If you want to learn more about the Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .

3. Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast. Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast is located in Tucson, Arizona, it’s 498 miles away from Los Angeles. You can arrive there in 7 hours and 43 mins of non-stop driving.

Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast in Tucson, Arizona is the perfect oasis for travelers making their way from Los Angeles to Dallas. This small and welcoming hotel is nestled in the stunning Sonoran desert and offers guests a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the road. The peaceful atmosphere of the hotel is a perfect reflection of the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The hotel is also well-known for its delicious breakfasts, which are served each morning and provide guests with a satisfying start to their day. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or simply enjoy a taste of the desert’s stunning landscape, Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast is the ideal choice for any traveler seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating stopover on their road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast, for more information.

4. Blue Swallow Motel

If you are taking the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas, Lordsburg, New Mexico is must have a place you should visit. Plus, Blue Swallow Motel is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 960 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 14 hours to drive.

The Blue Swallow Motel in Lordsburg, New Mexico is a must-visit for anyone taking a road trip on Route 66. As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly owner who was so passionate about his vintage motel that it was impossible not to be infected by his enthusiasm. The motel has a classic Route 66 feel, with authentic furnishings and fixtures that transport you back to the 40s and 50s. The rooms are comfortable and clean, with ultra-comfortable mattresses, spa-like towels, and organic toiletries. We particularly loved the funky cream soda and root beer that were waiting for us when we arrived. The garage that came with our room was a great touch, as it made us feel right at home while we were on the road. And the neon display at night is one of the best on Route 66. If you’re looking for a unique and authentic place to stay during your road trip, we highly recommend the Blue Swallow Motel.

If you need more info about the price and availability of Blue Swallow Motel, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park

Our next hotel is The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park, El Paso, Texas. It will take 11 hours and 45 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Los Angeles.

The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park in El Paso, Texas is an absolute gem on the drive from Los Angeles to Dallas. The hotel oozes luxury and is elegantly decorated with staff that is incredibly polite, professional, and helpful. The valet service was exceptional and added to the overall experience. The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park has a rich history, having welcomed A-listers such as Conrad Hilton, Elizabeth Taylor, and other Hollywood elite since its debut in the 1930s. The hotel has been beautifully restored and reasserts itself as the starlet of the city. With 130 rooms, it offers a luxurious stay with amenities that make it stand out from the rest. Dining at Ambar Restaurant is an experience not to be missed. I highly recommend a stay at The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park for a touch of glamour and luxury on your road trip.

Check The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park for reviews, prices, and availability.

6. Best Western Plus North Odessa Inn & Suites

Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas is Best Western Plus North Odessa Inn & Suites. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Odessa, Texas within 15 hours and 58 mins drive from Los Angeles.

Best Western Plus North Odessa Inn & Suites is a fantastic place to stop on your road trip. The staff is incredibly friendly and prioritizes guest satisfaction. This newly renovated hotel is both beautiful and clean, making for a great stay. The guest rooms have modern amenities and thoughtful designs, including spacious work desks and free internet access for business travelers. For longer stays, the in-room mini fridge is perfect for storing drinks and snacks. The hotel also features an in-house fitness room, so you can maintain your workout routine while on the road. At Best Western Plus North Odessa Inn & Suites, you can expect superior customer service, just like at any other Best Western® Hotels & Resorts. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone traveling through Odessa or looking for a comfortable place to rest during their road trip.

Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .

7. Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene

Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene. It’s located in Abilene, Texas and it is 1,257 miles from Los Angeles. You can arrive there within 18 hours and 17 mins of car drive.

Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene is an excellent place to stay during a road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. The check-in process was smooth and the staff was welcoming and friendly. As a member of Bonvoy, I felt appreciated and recognized. The room was spacious, comfortable, and quiet, with a nice bed and a well-equipped kitchenette. The hotel is conveniently located near some of Abilene’s top attractions, such as the Paramount Theatre and Swenson House Historical Society. The 24-hour front desk and concierge service made my stay even more enjoyable. The pool and free breakfast were a great way to start the day, and the free parking was a nice bonus. Overall, Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene provided me with a wonderful experience and I highly recommend it to anyone traveling through the area.

If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene.

8. Hyatt Place Fort Worth

Located in Fort Worth, Texas, Hyatt Place Fort Worth is another hotel where you can stay on the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. Hyatt Place Fort Worth is 1,409 miles from Los Angeles and will take 20 hours and 30 mins of non-stop driving.

Hyatt Place Fort Worth in Texas is a fantastic option for travelers making their way from Los Angeles to Dallas. The hotel is conveniently located near the Cultural District and the university and is just a short walk away from shopping, restaurants, and quick bites. The hotel is incredibly clean and offers a range of amenities for guests to enjoy. The breakfast was impressive, with a vast selection of options available to start the day right. The bed is incredibly comfortable and provides a great night’s sleep. If you’re looking for a top-notch hotel in Fort Worth, Hyatt Place is a perfect choice.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hyatt Place Fort Worth for more information.

9. The Adolphus, Autograph Collection

As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is The Adolphus, Autograph Collection hotel. The Adolphus, Autograph Collection, Dallas, Texas is 1,435 miles from Los Angeles, and you can arrive there with 20 hours and 50 mins of non-stop driving.

The Adolphus, Autograph Collection in Dallas, Texas is a truly exceptional place to stay on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. This historic hotel, located right in the heart of downtown, offers a charming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. With plenty of attractions within walking distance and a delicious selection of dishes, this hotel is the ideal choice for those who want to make the most of their time in Dallas. Whether you’re looking for a cozy place to rest after a long day of exploring, or simply want to experience the city’s rich history, The Adolphus is the perfect place for you.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Adolphus, Autograph Collection for more information about The Adolphus, Autograph Collection hotel.

In this part, we explained nine hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take Los Angeles to Dallas route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Los Angeles to Dallas. We have nine restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

9 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To Dallas Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. This section lists nine restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Los Angeles to Dallas road trip with BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino is located in San Bernardino, California , and is 58.5 miles from Los Angeles. It would take 1 hour of driving.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino is a great stop on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. With a bustling atmosphere, there may be a wait for seating, but it is well worth it. The menu has a huge variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it suitable for everyone’s tastes. The service is prompt and efficient, ensuring your food is hot and your drinks are always full. The menu features classic favorites like burgers, ribs, and salads, but it is their clam chowder that steals the show. If you’re a fan of craft beers, BJ’s has a full bar and a rotating selection of Happy hour and specials. To finish off your meal, the desserts are not to be missed. With all of these great options, it’s no wonder that BJ’s is always a crowd-pleaser.

For more information about BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino.

2. Rusconi’s American Kitchen

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Dallas from Los Angeles is Rusconi’s American Kitchen. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Rusconi’s American Kitchen is 384 miles from Los Angeles and would take 5 hours and 52 mins of driving.

Rusconi’s American Kitchen in Phoenix, Arizona is a must-stop on any road trip through the state. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with top-notch service and a menu filled with delicious options. During our visit, we were impressed by the quality of the food, particularly the mouth-watering braised short ribs and the delectable Bread Pudding. Every dish was expertly prepared and tasted even better than it looked. If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s both enjoyable and satisfying, Rusconi’s American Kitchen is the perfect place to stop on your road trip through Arizona.

If you want to learn more about Rusconi’s American Kitchen, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

3. Renee’s Tucson

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Renee’s Tucson. It will take 7 hours and 32 mins of car drive to take 491 miles from Los Angeles to Renee’s Tucson, Tucson, Arizona.

Renee’s Tucson is a contemporary restaurant that offers a wide range of menu options to suit everyone’s taste. The highlight of the menu is the meatballs, which are not to be missed. The meatballs are juicy, tender, and delicious. They will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. Whether you’re in Tucson for a quick pitstop on your road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas or looking for a nice place to dine in, Renee’s Tucson is a great option. The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. You won’t regret visiting Renee’s Tucson and trying their delicious meatballs.

You can check Renee’s Tucson, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Kranberry’s Family Restaurant

Kranberry’s Family Restaurant deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Lordsburg, New Mexico.

Kranberry’s Family Restaurant in Lordsburg, New Mexico is a must-stop spot on your road trip. As soon as we walked in, we felt right at home with the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. The menu is extensive and includes a range of American and Mexican dishes, so there is something for everyone. We decided to try the hot beef sandwich, which came on bread with mashed potatoes and brown gravy, and it was the best we’d ever had. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, making it a great value for the quality of the meal. We also enjoyed the quiet and relaxing dining room, which was a nice break from the road. Kranberry’s Family Restaurant is a true gem and a great place to stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner on your journey. Don’t miss out on this fantastic home-cooked meal!

Kranberry’s Family Restaurant is 640 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 9 hours and 24 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Cranberries Family Restaurant, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

5. Zino’s Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine

If you enjoy dining, Zino’s Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine would be an excellent choice in El Paso, Texas. It’s 794 miles from Los Angeles and would take 11 hours and 40 mins of car driving.

Zino’s Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine in El Paso, Texas is a must-visit for anyone taking a road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. The service was friendly and attentive, and the owner takes pride in preparing every dish from scratch. We tried the shrimp in tomato sauce with feta and the hummus appetizer, which were both delicious. The lamb shish kabobs and chicken shish kabobs were cooked to perfection and came with a side salad. We also tried the special of the day, lemon chicken with rice, which was a hit. The owner even comped us dessert so we could try it, which was a nice surprise. The restaurant is located in a shopping center but don’t let that deter you from trying their wonderful Greek food. They offer both lunch and dinner and have a range of options on their menu. Takeout and reservations are available, and they accept credit cards. Zino’s is a hidden gem and a great stop on your road trip.

If you want to learn more about Zino’s Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

6. Cork and Pig Tavern, Odessa

Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas is Cork and Pig Tavern, Odessa, Odessa, Texas. It will take 15 hours and 58 mins of driving to reach Cork and Pig Tavern, Odessa from Los Angeles.

Cork and Pig Tavern in Odessa, Texas is a great place to stop on a road trip. The atmosphere is inviting and the service is super friendly. We started with the hard-boiled eggs with bacon appetizer, which was a unique and tasty twist. The pork ribs were our main dish and we split them. They were delicious! We also appreciated the nice selection of draft beers available. The music was exceptional and added to the great atmosphere. While the menu is a bit limited, we found the food and service to be very good. Vegetarian-friendly, vegan options, and gluten-free options are available, making this a good spot for a variety of dietary needs. Overall, an amazing experience at Cork and Pig Tavern in Odessa.

For more information about Cork and Pig Tavern, Odessa you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

7. The Beehive, Abeliene

Ranked seventh on our list, The Beehive, Abeliene appeals to those who want to turn their Dallas vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Abilene, Texas 1,254 miles away from Los Angeles, and it’ll take 18 hours and 17 mins of driving.

The Beehive in Abilene, Texas is a great place to stop on a road trip between Los Angeles and Dallas. The food and service were outstanding, and the prices were reasonable. We tried their filet, which was cooked to perfection and accompanied by superb sides. The house Cabernet was a perfect match for the fine-quality beef. The atmosphere was nice and the service was terrific – we felt welcomed like old friends even though it was our first visit. The food was very good and the drinks were perfect. What surprised us the most was the check – the food was reasonably priced and the drinks were incredibly cheap, with a $9 martini and $6 Hendricks on the rocks. The Beehive is a must-visit for anyone passing through Abilene. With vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options, and lunch and dinner meals available, it’s a perfect spot to take a break from a long drive. Plus, with private dining, parking, highchairs, wheelchair accessibility, and gift cards available, there’s something for everyone at The Beehive.

If you want to learn more about The Beehive, Abeliene you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

8. The Capital Grille, Fort Worth

The Capital Grille, Fort Worth is an excellent restaurant that is 1,404 miles away from Los Angeles. The Capital Grille, Fort Worth is located in Fort Worth, Texas, and you can reach there after 20 hours and 22 mins of car driving.

The Capital Grille, Fort Worth, is a top-notch dining experience. The menu is full of delicious options, but the standout dishes are the rich and creamy lobster bisque, the perfectly cooked tenderloin, the indulgent creamed corn and creamed spinach, and the heavenly coconut crème pie. Every bite is a true delight and will not disappoint. This is a must-visit stop on the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip and a restaurant that should not be missed.

If you want to discover the menu and more information about The Capital Grille, Fort Worth, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

9. Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Dallas:

Eating is a serious business. Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who take this job seriously is Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Dallas, Dallas, Texas. It is 1,434 miles from Los Angeles and would take around 20 hours and 47 mins of car driving.

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Dallas is a must-visit for any foodie on a Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. The service is top-notch, and the wine and fireplace rooms create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of mouth-watering options, including shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, prime ribeye, lobster, salmon, lamb chops, and crab cakes – all of which are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak or succulent seafood, Pappas Bros. Steakhouse promises a delicious dining experience.

You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Dallas, for detailed information.

This section lists our nine restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 1,436 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Dallas road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Los Angeles to Dallas. Keep reading.

9 Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To Dallas Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Dallas. However, there are also some unique destinations like San Bernardino, California on your road trip. We want to explain the top nine destinations we recommend on the Dallas route.

1. San Bernardino National Forest

San Bernardino National Forest will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. Located in San Bernardino, California, San Bernardino National Forest is 70.8 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 1 hour and 10 mins to drive.

San Bernardino National Forest is a must-visit destination on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. This incredible forest spans over 660,000 acres of the San Bernardino Mountains and offers a stunning array of landscapes, from arid deserts to towering alpine peaks. With so many breathtaking views, serene lakes, and challenging hikes, San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just a peaceful retreat, this national forest is sure to exceed your expectations and provide you with an unforgettable experience.

If you want to learn more about the San Bernardino National Forest, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

2. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, Arizona is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Los Angeles to Dallas route. It’s 380 miles from Los Angeles, and it’ll take about 5 hours and 47 mins of driving.

Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona is a nature lover’s paradise. It features an array of gorgeous plant species and breathtaking vistas. If you’re looking for a source of inspiration, then this garden should be on your list of stops on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. With its stunning beauty, you won’t be able to resist capturing memories of your visit. So, make sure your phone and camera batteries are fully charged before you arrive.

If you want to learn more about Desert Botanical Garden, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .

3. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas is Tucson, Arizona. And if you visit Tucson, Arizona, we suggest you visit Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. You can arrive at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum after 7 hours and 23 mins of driving.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a must-visit destination for those on a Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. The museum offers an immersive experience of the world of the desert and its inhabitants. Visitors can wander through the botanical garden and admire the diverse plant life, visit the zoo to see various desert animals up close and learn about the unique ecosystem through interactive exhibits. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply want to take a break from the road and learn something new, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is the perfect stop.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum for more information.

4. Shakespeare Ghost Town

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Shakespeare Ghost Town, Lordsburg, New Mexico on the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip. Shakespeare Ghost Town is 642 miles from Los Angeles, and you can arrive there after the 9 hours and 30 mins of drive.

Shakespeare Ghost Town is a must-see destination on any road trip through New Mexico. The town’s historical buildings, preserved over three generations by the same family, provide a unique glimpse into the past. The guided tour is not to be missed, as the knowledgeable guide provides a fascinating and informative experience. As you wander through the town, it’s easy to feel transported back in time to the 1850s when Shakespeare was founded. The town has a rich and varied history, and the reliable spring that first drew people to the area remains a feature of the landscape. Shakespeare Ghost Town is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm MT, but be sure to call ahead to ensure a tour guide is available. This stop on the road trip is perfect for history buffs and anyone who appreciates the charm of a bygone era.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Shakespeare Ghost Town before going there.

5. National Border Patrol Museum

Located in El Paso, Texas, National Border Patrol Museum ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. You must take 11 hours and 43 mins of driving to arrive at the National Border Patrol Museum.

The National Border Patrol Museum in El Paso, Texas, is a must-visit place on the drive. This museum provides an immersive and educational experience that delves into the rich history of the Border Patrol. It is incredible to see the actual vehicles and equipment used by these brave officers. The museum is free to enter and has a vast collection of artifacts and displays that showcase the evolution of the Border Patrol from its founding to the present day. The exhibits are informative and engaging, giving visitors a greater understanding of the crucial role the Border Patrol plays in protecting our borders. I was impressed with how much I learned about US immigration policy and the dedication of the officers who work tirelessly to keep our country safe. The National Border Patrol Museum is a fascinating and well-curated museum that is well worth the visit.

If you want to learn more about National Border Patrol Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

6. Chris Kyle Memorial

Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas is Chris Kyle Memorial, Odessa, Texas. Chris Kyle Memorial is 1,094 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 16 hours to drive.

The Chris Kyle Memorial in Odessa, Texas is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the area. The memorial is a beautiful tribute to one of America’s heroes and the quotes and area surrounding the statue are just as impressive as the statue itself. This man deserves a memorial for him and the Chris Kyle Memorial Plaza is well done and gives the respect he deserves. The monument is centered around honoring Chris Kyle, but it also represents teamwork and humbleness, which are core values of the Navy SEALS. The 2,800 square-foot granite and Texas limestone plaza are located adjacent to the Veterans’ Clinic on the property of Medical Center Hospital on S.H. 191. It’s an inspiring and emotional place that will leave you feeling grateful for the sacrifices made by our military heroes. Take a moment to pay your respects to Chris Kyle and reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of all those who have served our country. This memorial is a good place to stop on the drive and to remember those who have served.

For more information about Chris Kyle Memorial, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .

7. Abilene Zoo

You can visit many destinations on your Los Angeles to Dallas journey. One of these destinations is Abilene Zoo located in, Abilene, Texas. You can arrive at Abilene Zoo after 18 hours and 19 mins of driving.

Abilene Zoo in Abilene, Texas is a must-visit place for animal lovers! The zoo has a variety of animals, including giraffes, lions, tigers, and bears, as well as a petting zoo and a splash pad. The staff is very friendly, and the zoo is clean and well-maintained. The giraffe feeding is a must-do experience, and the food available in the zoo is both affordable and delicious. Families with young children will love the zoo as there are plenty of activities for them, including feeding fish and ducks and playing in play areas. The gift shop is also very affordable, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. The only downside is that there are limited food vending areas, but with the affordable food options available, that is a minor issue. Overall, Abilene Zoo is worth a stop on your road trip through Texas!

If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Abilene Zoo you can visit Abilene Zoo’s TripAdvisor page or their website .

8. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

As we near the end of our list of the top 9 best places to visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas, it would be unfair not to mention Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District locates in Fort Worth, Texas, 1,408 miles from Los Angeles, and it takes 20 hours and 27 mins drive from Los Angeles to get there.

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a step back in time to the Wild West era. The historic district is full of charm, featuring original brick walkways, wooden corrals, and buildings that recall the days when the livestock industry flourished in Texas. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the state and the West. The district provides a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun and interesting place to visit, the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is worth a stop on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip.

If you want to learn more about Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

9. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the Dallas trip. Located in Dallas, Texas, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is 1,435 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 20 hours and 50 mins to drive.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The museum offers an immersive experience, recreating the atmosphere of the 1960s and giving visitors a detailed look into Kennedy’s presidency and assassination. The exhibits are meticulously crafted and thoughtfully curated, making this museum a fascinating and educational stop on your Los Angeles to Dallas road trip.

If you want to learn more about The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Los Angeles to Dallas

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Los Angeles to Dallas drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Dallas?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip takes approximately 20 hours and 50 mins to drive. The driving distance between Los Angeles to Dallas is 1,436 miles.
• If you want to make the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be 5 days and 5 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Los Angeles-Dallas route, then you will have to walk for 19 days and 6 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Los Angeles To Dallas?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to Dallas. You can visit San Bernardino, California; Phoenix, Arizona; Tucson, Arizona; Lordsburg, New Mexico; El Paso, Texas; Odessa, Texas; Abilene, Texas; Fort Worth, Texas; Dallas, Texas; on the road. Here we list nine places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Los Angeles to Dallas journey, you can check the 9 Best Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To Dallas Road Trip.

• San Bernardino National Forest: 70.8 miles / 1 hour and 10 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,347 miles / 19 hours and 44 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Desert Botanical Garden: 380 miles / 5 hours and 47 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,062 miles / 15 hours and 17 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: 482 miles / 7 hours and 23 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 964 miles / 14 hours of driving to Dallas.
• Shakespeare Ghost Town: 642 miles / 9 hours and 30 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 798 miles / 11 hours and 33 mins of driving to Dallas.
• National Border Patrol Museum: 798 miles / 11 hours and 43 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 642 miles / 9 hours and 15 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Chris Kyle Memorial: 1,094 miles / 16 hours to drive from Los Angeles | 347 miles / 5 hours of driving to Dallas.
• Abilene Zoo: 1,260 miles / 18 hours and 19 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 179 miles / 2 hours and 40 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District: 1,408 miles / 20 hours and 27 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 35.2 miles / 39 mins of driving to Dallas.
• The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza: 1,435 miles / 20 hours and 50 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1.1 miles / 6 mins of driving to Dallas.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Dallas?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. We have selected nine hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Dallas From Los Angeles section.

• Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino: 58.2 miles / 1 hour to drive from Los Angeles | 1,378 miles / 19 hours and 58 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley: 384 miles / 5 hours and 48 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,084 miles / 15 hours and 36 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Desert Trails Bed and Breakfast: 498 miles / 7 hours and 43 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 949 miles / 13 hours and 47 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Blue Swallow Motel: 960 miles / 14 hours to drive from Los Angeles | 474 miles / 7 hours of driving to Dallas.
• The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park: 801 miles / 11 hours and 45 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 636 miles / 9 hours and 11 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Best Western Plus North Odessa Inn & Suites: 1,092 miles / 15 hours and 58 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 349 miles / 5 hours of driving to Dallas.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Abilene: 1,257 miles / 18 hours and 17 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 180 miles / 2 hours and 39 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Hyatt Place Fort Worth: 1,409 miles / 20 hours and 30 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 35.5 miles / 41 mins of driving to Dallas.
• The Adolphus, Autograph Collection: 1,435 miles / 20 hours and 50 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1.0 miles / 5 mins of driving to Dallas.

Where To Eat Between Los Angeles to Dallas?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Los Angeles to Dallas drive, you can consider the nine restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 9 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To Dallas Road Trip .

• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino: 58.5 miles / 1 hour to drive from Los Angeles | 1,378 miles / 19 hours and 57 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Rusconi’s American Kitchen: 384 miles / 5 hours and 52 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,075 miles / 15 hours and 28 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Renee’s Tucson: 491 miles / 7 hours and 32 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 950 miles / 13 hours and 50 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Kranberry’s Family Restaurant: 640 miles / 9 hours and 24 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 796 miles / 11 hours and 27 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Zino’s Greek and Mediterranean Cuisine: 794 miles / 11 hours and 40 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 643 miles / 9 hours and 17 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Cork and Pig Tavern, Odessa: 1,093 miles / 15 hours and 58 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 348 miles / 5 hours of driving to Dallas.
• The Beehive, Abeliene: 1,254 miles / 18 hours and 17 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 181 miles / 2 hours and 43 mins of driving to Dallas.
• The Capital Grille, Fort Worth: 1,404 miles / 20 hours and 22 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 32.4 miles / 33 mins of driving to Dallas.
• Pappas Bros. Steakhouse, Dallas: 1,434 miles / 20 hours and 47 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 10.9 miles / 15 mins of driving to Dallas.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas. We have listed nine hotels, nine restaurants, and nine places to visit on the Los Angeles to Dallas drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Los Angeles to Dallas road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want to have the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Los Angeles to Dallas and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Dallas Road Trip – Travel Guide

In this video, you will find key tips to maximize the joy of your Dallas road trip.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Sacramento To Dallas Road Trip: The Exciting Adventure
• Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Road Trip: Make Memories
• Tucson To Dallas Road Trip: The Scenic Route

Hi, I'm Tolga. Your guide for unforgettable road trips across the USA, Europe, and Australia. I offer destination insights, tips, and occasionally use AI for added accuracy. Let's explore the world one road at a time!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Ultimate Texas to California Drive: 25 Best Stops

Welcome to our Texas to California drive trip planner!

If you want to have an epic adventure in the American Southwest, then consider the family road trip from Texas to California. 

You will be seeing some of the most stunning attractions in Southwest USA!

Including beautiful national parks such as White Sands National Monument, Grand Canyon National Park, Saguaro National Park, and Joshua Tree National Park….

….before enjoying the pristine beaches of the West Coast!

Live in Texas? Looking for local getaways, state parks, hidden gems, and weekend destinations in Texas? Check out our brand new local travel site Enchanting Texas ! From dinosaur tracks in Texas to charming beach towns, plan your next Texas vacation with us!

Why drive from Texas to California?

This amazing road trip is perfect for those who love adventure and the open roads!

You will be passing through 4 states and travel over 1500 miles.

Pretty incredible, huh?

You will also be able to visit amazing cities like San Antonio, Albuquerque, Phoenix, and Los Angeles!

Visitors can do the Texas to California drive via two amazing routes: Southern route goes via I-10 or via Route 66, also known as the Mother Road.

There are plentiful attractions on both the roads. 

Our recommendation? Plan a round trip and drive on both these iconic roads. 

Take the I-10 and enjoy attractions like El Paso, Las Cruces, Tucson, and Palm Springs. 

Also Read: Texas to Colorado Road Trip Planner

While returning, take Route 66 and see Flagstaff, Cadillac Ranch, and Texas’ very own Palo Duro Canyon. 

This is a road trip for those who love driving.

You will see nothing but the vast desert landscape and lonely roads for several days. 

Finding California’s vibrant cities at the end of the road is, undoubtedly, a delightful surprise. 

Use our road trip planner to plan this amazing road trip and make memories of a lifetime with your loved ones. 

Love visual guides? See this video story to plan a California to Texas road trip ! Or this amazing video on California to Texas via Route 66 !

Where to begin Texas California road trip?

If you’re living in Texas, then you can begin your Texas to California Drive anywhere near the four major cities of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin .

We have been on the road trip from Houston to California many times and have had great fun.

Several of our friends have been on a road trip from Austin to California and enjoyed the drive.

The Austin to California road trip is very beautiful in the spring when wildflowers bloom all over the southwestern USA.

If you are flying into Texas for the road trip then consider either Dallas or Houston both of which are major airports and well-connected to different destinations.

Also Read: Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Best Time to go on the Texas to California Drive

The road trip to California from Texas makes an excellent winter family vacation since the southwestern states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California all have a very mild winter. 

Spring or fall are also good seasons to go on this road trip.

In these seasons, you can plan a tent camping road trip from Texas to California by car. 

We do not recommend planning this road trip during the hot summer months as the heat in western Texas, deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, as well as Southern California is very extreme.

Texas to California road trip time

So exactly how many days should you devote to this road trip?

For the entire trip from Texas to California, how many hours do you need?

The entire Houston to Los Angeles road trip along I-10 is almost 1550 hours long and takes 24 hours non stop.

The drive from California to Texas route with stops along Route 66 is about 1200 miles from Amarillo to LA and takes about 17 hrs.

Add in time to see attractions as well as resting at night, and we recommend keeping aside at least 5 days for the Texas to LA road trip, whichever route you choose.

A week is the best to make the most of the attractions.

Planning a round trip?

7 days to 10 days is the perfect time to explore the many destinations along the routes.

Texas to California road trip: Along I-10

The interstate connects these two states and has plenty of attractions along the way.

With stunning scenery and landscapes, this is the more scenic route from Texas to California.

This is also the best way to see the many national parks between Texas and California. 

Houston is one of the best cities to begin the Texas to California drive. 

It has plenty of things to do with something for everyone.

Most visitors love the Houston Museum District, which features world-class museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Contemporary Arts Museum. 

The National WWII Museum is also worth checking out if you want a taste of American history in Texas.

Houston is also a diverse city.

Whether you’re looking to eat some authentic Mexican food, or enjoy the exciting nightlife scene, Houston has it all!

Explore the city’s beautiful historic neighborhoods, or see the Astros play at Minute Maid Park.

End your day with a trip to the Space Center and enjoy the many space exhibits.

If you are from Houston, then head directly to West Texas but if you are new to H-Town, then definitely explore a bit before driving west on the I-10 on the Houston to California road trip.

San Antonio

Next up on the Interstate on Texas to California drive is the Alamo City. 

San Antonio is a beautiful, historic city with plenty to see and do.

Visitors from all over the world are drawn to its rich culture and exciting attractions. 

From dining on the River Walk to taking in some of the best live music shows in Texas, there are plenty of things to do for those visiting San Antonio.

The Alamo, one of San Antonio’s most famous landmarks, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Other popular attractions include one of the world’s largest churches, Basilica Minore de San Fernando, SeaWorld San Antonio, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park.

From here, continue on the road trip from San Antonio to California in West Texas.

Optional: Marfa

Near Fort Stockton on the I-10, take a detour to visit Marfa, West Texas. 

Marfa is a small town in the far west Texas desert.

It has a bohemian vibe and some of the quirkiest and most unique things to do. 

Spend an afternoon browsing through the art galleries or shop for authentic souvenirs in the antique stores. 

Take a scenic drive around Marfa and admire the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this colorful town.

If you are lucky, you might also be able to see the mysterious Lights of Marfa if you stay overnight. 

Marfa is a great place to halt for the night and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery on the Texas to California Drive.

Optional: Fort Davis

Fort Davis, TX is the perfect place to visit with your family on a Texas California road trip. 

You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the town and take in some Texas history. 

There are plenty of things to do in the town, from fishing at Lake Fort Davis to checking out the many museums and historic sites. 

Astronomy lovers can head over to the McDonald observatory to learn about the dark skies and view celestial bodies from the telescopes.

Optional: Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is one of the hidden gems in the US and one of the popular sites to see from Texas to California!

Easily accessible from the Interstate, Big Bend is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in the United States. 

Its expansive, rugged landscape of the Chisos mountains and cacti filled desert enchants all visitors.

The scenic landscape is home to diverse wildlife and has plenty of hiking trails for nature lovers.

The best way to experience Big Bend is on foot or bike, so pack your gear and get ready for a memorable adventure!

El Paso is one of the most underrated cities in Texas.

The border town has many cultural and historic attractions as well as culinary delights. 

Some of the top attractions in El Paso include the El Paso Museum of Art, Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, and Fort Bliss Historical Society & Museum.

Visit the Franklin Mountains State Park located in the heart of the city.

Take the scenic drive to enjoy the vistas from above or go hiking to enjoy the beautiful landscape. 

White Sands National Park 

White Sands National Park, located in Alamogordo, New Mexico, is a national park with an abundance of natural beauty.

Previously White Sands National Monument, this park is famous for its vast gypsum deposits. 

This is an essential stop on the Texas to California driving trip.

The area features a dry climate and large expanses of white sand dunes that seem to stretch on for miles. 

Visitors can find many things to do at the national park.

From hiking in the beautiful landscape to camping under the stars and from sledding down the dunes to scenic drives, there’s something for everyone at the park!

Optional: Carlsbad Cavern National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park in southeastern New Mexico is an amazing natural wonder. 

This UNESCO Site is on the top of every tourist’s bucket list, because it offers amazing opportunities for exploration and discovery.

The park has been inhabited for over 11,000 years by Native Americans and is home to some of the largest caves found on Earth. 

On a cave tour, you can see striking geological formations including stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones.

Tucson, located on the I-10, is a great destination to rest and spend some time on the road trip.

This beautiful city is full of Arizona’s iconic natural wonders and over 200 years worth of history.

From hiking at Sabino Canyon to shopping along Fourth Avenue; the city of Tucson has a lot to offer in terms of things to see and do. 

Visitors can enjoy the hiking trails in the Catalina Mountains or the art galleries downtown.

For an amazing outdoor experience, then head out to Kartchner Caverns State Park.

Here, visitors can enjoy the beautiful caverns in the world on a guided tour.

Saguaro National Park

One of the popular national parks in Arizona, Saguaro is a great place to explore on the California road trip from Texas. 

The national park has two districts.

The Tucson Mountain District is located to the west of Tucson and has over 20 miles of trails. 

The Rincon Mountain District with its expansive views and dramatic landscapes, is located to the east of the city.

Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, hike through the giant Saguaro cacti, or go bird watching!

Phoenix is a city of sunshine and culture – a great place to spend a couple of days on your road trip. 

The most popular things to do in Phoenix include the museums, art galleries, and a vibrant dining scene. 

The Arizona Science Center has over 100 interactive exhibits and is a favorite with families.

The Heard Museum is very popular with art lovers.

The desert has many scenic drives and adrenaline rushing attractions for outdoor lovers. 

To beat the heat, visit Slide Rock State Park near Sedona.

It has lots of splashing fun, natural rock slides, and hiking trails.

The city of Scottsdale, in the Sonoran Desert, has the perfect blend of high-end style and casual comfort. 

It’s known for its beautiful outdoor activities, world-class golf courses, upscale shopping malls, art galleries, and amazing restaurants.

Old Town Scottsdale is a charming place to take a stroll and people watch. 

Architecture lovers can visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s summer home of Taliesin West on a guided tour and admire the stunning design. 

Also Read: Scottsdale Arizona Babymoon Guide

Joshua Tree National Park

Finally, the I-10 will lead you to California. Be sure to stop at Joshua Tree National Park near Palm Springs. 

The vast natural beauty of Joshua Tree can be enjoyed by hiking, scenic drives, camping, and rock climbing within the park. 

Visitors love the unique environment of the park and the vegetation that grows here including the Joshua tree, cholla cactus, ocotillos, etc.

A variety of wildlife also calls the park home.

The park is a great place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, history buffs and anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Cottonwood Visitor Center which marks the southern entrance of the park is located close to the Interstate, making the park very accessible on a Texas California road trip.

Also Read: Joshua Tree Itinerary

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is one of the most popular destinations for tourists to visit in California. 

The city has plenty of attractions including relaxing spa resorts, world class museums, designer shopping, architecture tours, and restaurants. 

The dry desert climate makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities like golfing, ATV riding, hiking, and mountain biking year round. 

Make sure to try the local favorites of date shakes and cactus fries on your visit.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Palm Springs

Cabazon is an essential road trip stop because of its dinosaurs! 

At this unique destination in Southern California, you will find two life-size statues of dinosaurs – one Apatosaurus and one T-Rex!

Kids love playing under the prehistoric beasts and climbing on their legs. 

There is also a gift shop with many dinosaur souvenirs, picnic tables for visitors, and a ticketed area with many more dinosaur attractions. 

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the largest cities in the United States and also one of the most populous.

This city has tons to offer from world-class museums to incredible white sand beaches and from high end shopping to movie studio tours. 

The city is also known for its ethnic diversity and this diversity can also be seen in it’s cuisine.

Visit the Mexican taquerias or sample some fresh seafood, LA is heaven for foodies. 

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is the perfect place to end your road trip. 

The city is a popular tourist destination, with its miles of sandy beaches and the iconic Santa Monica pier. 

The pier is home to the famous Pacific Park amusement park and has thrill rides, games, and food stands. 

The oceanfront in Santa Monica is one of America’s best streets.

It has souvenir shops, restaurants, and entertainment options like the 3rd Street Promenade Theatre. 

Outdoor lovers can explore the canyons in the Santa Monica Mountains while families can watch fishermen pull in their daily catch. 

End your trip over cocktails at one of the many outdoor bars overlooking the ocean and enjoy the West Coast’s legendary sunsets. 

Route 66 from Texas to California

Route 66 is the most famous highway in America. 

It crosses eight states and has some of the most iconic destinations along its path, from Chicago to Santa Monica. 

The northern route from Texas to California has many tourist attractions and nostalgic icons like abandoned ghost towns, vintage gas stations, and wigwam motels.

You can also use this route for the return road trip to Texas from California.

Big D is the perfect place to begin the Dallas to California road trip!

This North Texas city is amazing to explore.

The people here are friendly, the food is great and there’s always something happening in Dallas. 

This bustling, fast-paced city has plenty of sights to see and things to do. 

The Arts District is home to premier museums including the Crow Collection of Asian Art, Nasher Sculpture Garden, and Dallas Museum of Art, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

Other neighborhoods including Deep Ellum, Bishops Arts District, and Downtown Historic District are also worth a visit on the road trip Texas to California.

The road trip from Dallas to California along the northern route then passes the Texas panhandle.

The Amarillo, Texas area is a must visit stop on Historic Route 66. 

The city has plenty of museums, parks, and restaurants if you want to sight see or relax.

The food scene is amazing too because there are so many different types of cuisines available including Tex-Mex, BBQ and more. 

But the main attraction of driving to California from Texas in Amarillo is the Route 66 Historic District where you can find murals, diners, and many other iconic attractions including the Big Texan Steak ranch. 

Palo Duro Canyon

For a truly unique geological attraction, consider visiting the Palo Duro Canyon from Amarillo. 

The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a beautiful place to visit, with it’s deep canyon walls and red rock formations. 

From the rim and visitor center, you can see amazing views of the canyon from above.

Take the scenic drive to explore the depths of the canyon. 

The park is great for anyone who loves nature, hiking, or camping.

There are many different hiking trails in this state park, including the Lighthouse Trail, the Rock Garden Trail, or the CCC Trail. 

They all offer their own unique experiences but have one thing in common: they’re absolutely gorgeous and a hiker’s delight!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch in the Texas Panhandle is one of the quintessential attractions of the Historic Route 66 Road Trip.

It is one of the best things to do on road trip from Texas to California.

Located outside of Amarillo, Texas, this art installation has 10 Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground. 

The idea of the project was to create a space for tourists and visitors to explore America’s car obsession – it has succeeded and how!

Tourists love taking Instagram pictures and selfies with the cars, spray painting on them, or simply enjoying themselves in the artwork.

Must on a Route 66 road trip, Cadillac Ranch is a roadside attraction that will never be forgotten. 

Adrian Texas is a small town in West Texas, about 50 mins from Amarillo.

It is the midpoint of Route 66 and has many Instagram photo ops. 

On Adrian’s Main Street, you will find many old buildings with peeling paint and boarded up windows. 

Visit the Midpoint Cafe for lunch and check out the Route 66 memorabilia on the walls. 

Also essential is the photo with the ‘Welcome to Adrian’ sign. 

Straddling the border between Texas and New Mexico is a forgotten town that once made its living off of Route 66. 

Now, it remains home to the occasional tourists, weeds growing across the vast prairie, and a collection of dilapidated buildings including the iconic Cafe Little Juarez.

Glenrio is a paradise for ruin photographers!

Santa Rosa Blue Hole 

The Santa Rosa Blue Hole in New Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for tourists on the Mother Road. 

This natural spring fed swimming hole also has a system of underground caves.

It’s electric blue color is a welcome sight in the New Mexico desert.

Activities around the Blue Hole include hiking, camping, swimming in the blue hole, or just relaxing by it’s side and taking in the view.

This is also a popular scuba diving destination in the US. 

Albuquerque 

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico.

It’s home to a vibrant culture, historic sites, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. 

From museums and art galleries, to shopping, hiking trails and restaurants Albuquerque has it all!

Families can visit the Rio Grande Zoo or take a stroll around Old Town Albuquerque. 

Check out the city’s many museums including the National Hispanic Museum of Art or the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

From the world-renowned Route 66 to the International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque is a must stop on your way to California. 

Optional: Santa Fe and Pecos

Some of the old alignments of Route 66 once passed through Santa Fe.

Many road trippers on Route 66 still stop in Santa Fe and nearby Pecos on their way west. 

Santa Fe is a city of culture, history, and beauty.

The city has amazing Pueblo style architecture.

Take a stroll through the historic districts surrounding the Santa Fe Plaza and enjoy the vibe of the city.

Santa Fe is also an amazing destination for art lovers.

Did you know there are more than 100 art galleries in the town? Visit the Canyon Road to see them all. 

Enjoy margaritas on the margarita trail, buy Native American jewelry, and enjoy a beak from the driving in this amazing destination. 

Pecos is located just half an hour away from Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The history, the culture, the beauty and diversity of this region is amazing! 

There are many wonderful sites to visit nearby such as the Pecos National Historical Park where you can explore Native American ruins; Glorieta Pass which was the site of an important battle in the Civil War;  and the beautiful Benedictine Monastery.

Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, camping, and hunting in the Pecos Wilderness area.

Petrified Forest and Painted Desert

Wondering what to see on drive to California from Texas in Arizona?

The Petrified Forest National Park is a place that you don’t want to miss. 

It’s located in northeastern Arizona and is one of the most beautiful places in the USA. 

The park was created from an ancient forest which turned to stone over time.

It contains the largest collection of petrified wood in the world and is a must on family road trip California to Texas for geology lovers.

Visitors can hike amongst the fossilized logs of ancient trees and see the amazing colors and textures.

Located in Northern Arizona, the Painted Desert stretches from the Grand Canyon in the east to the Navajo Nation in the west. 

One of the most accessible areas of this stunning natural landscape can be reached via the Painted Desert Visitor Center of the Petrified Forest National Park.

Here you can admire the beautiful color striations and amazing rock formations that look the most vibrant at sunset. 

Flagstaff is a charming small city in northern Arizona.

It’s known for its beautiful weather, picturesque views, and historical attractions. 

Our favorite attraction here is Lowell Observatory, a public observatory that is open to visitors.

You can view celestial objects like planets, stars, galaxies and nebulae through the telescopes.

Visitors who enjoy outdoor recreation should visit Arizona Snowbowl for skiing while cultural tourists can see the Native American sites in Wupatki National Monument or the Walnut Canyon National Monument.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon National Park, located in Northern Arizona, can be easily seen on a Route 66 road trip from Texas to California.

Seeing the Grand Canyon is an amazing experience.

It spans across 277 miles and has a depth of 6,000 feet at its deepest point. 

The canyon was formed by the Colorado River over millions of years of erosion.

The different layers of the canyon can be easily seen from the Rim trails. 

Stop at the Visitor Center and learn about the geology and natural history of the canyon.

Hike within its depths or take the scenic rim drives.

Optional: Sedona 

The red rocks and craggy terrain of Sedona make for some of the most enchanting landscapes in Arizona. 

Sedona also has a rich history and culture with the first Native Americans settling here over 10,000 years ago. 

There is a lot to do and see here, so you’ll want to spend at least an entire day exploring all that Sedona has to offer.

Enjoy the breathtaking views from Bell Rock butte, take a scenic drive to enjoy the natural beauty of Oak Creek Canyon, or visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

Optional: Las Vegas

From the Grand Canyon, you can continue on Route 66 towards California, but why not take a detour to Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a city of lights and dreams.

It’s also one of the most exciting cities in America to visit. 

Vegas has tons of things to do for visitors – from world-class shows and attractions, to award-winning dining and shopping, Sin City has it all.

See the amazing casinos on the Las Vegas Strip.

View the fountains of Bellagio and take a gondola ride in Venice. Enjoy partying, gambling, and drinks. 

Explore outdoor attractions such as Valley of Fire State Park or the beautiful Red Rock Canyon before driving towards the beaches of California. 

There are many other national parks near Vegas like Bryce Canyon and Zion which are perfect additions to this road trip if you have the time. 

Also Read: Grand Canyon Road Trip from Las Vegas

Optional: Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. 

This popular tourist attraction features two separate slot canyons: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon . 

They were formed by erosion of the Navajo sandstone over millions of years.

The stunning canyon walls are covered with red and black stripes and spirals due to the movement of the water. 

The deeper you hike in the canyon, the more vivid is its beauty.

The colors change with sunlight, making the noon tours very popular.

Optional: Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in mainland US and worth the detour from Route 66. 

The park contains many diverse landscapes including the arid desert, salt flats, sand dunes, and desolate badlands. 

Popular things to do in Death Valley National Park include hiking, scenic drives, sand boarding the dunes, and visiting historic structures in the park such as Scotty’s Castle. 

Seligman is a little town in Northern Arizona, nestled between Flagstaff and Kingman. 

It’s known as an iconic Route 66 stop and has many retro shops, diners, and motels. 

Visit the Return To The 50s Museum to see vintage cars and Route 66 memorabilia. 

Learning about the history of Seligman at this converted gas station.

Kingman 

Kingman, a small town in Arizona along Route 66, has a rich history. 

It is home to Route 66 Museum which celebrates America’s Mother Road. 

Mohave Museum of History and Arts you can learn about Western heritage and Native American crafts & history.

Families love seeing the vintage steam trains and railroad exhibits at Locomotive Park. 

This little gem has something to offer for everyone and we recommend keeping aside two to three hours to explore Kingman.

Pasadena, located on the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains in Southern California, is an amazing stop on the Route 66 road trip from Texas to California. 

Here you can still see some of the original motels including the Saga Motor Hotel and the Pasadena Motel. 

Another iconic attraction here is the Colorado Street Bridge, built in the Beaux Arts style of architecture. 

You can also observe the historic neon signs throughout the city. 

Santa Monica 

The affluent beachfront city of Santa Monica is the end of your Texas California road trip. 

The city is home to one of the world’s most famous beaches, the Santa Monica Beach.

Santa Monica is also famous for its pier and amusement park as well as panoramic ocean views.

The Santa Monica pier has mile marker 0 or End of Route 66 sign and is a must visit!

The City of Angels is the final destination on the Texas to Los Angeles road trip.

See the many museums, enjoy the movie studios, and have an amazing time in the city.

Then drive back on the Los Angeles to Texas road trip to complete the loop.

Planning road trip from California to Texas

Whichever route you choose, the many things to do on road trip from California to Texas are equally fun even when you drive towards the east.

The LA to Texas road trip follows the exact routes discussed above.

Here are some modifications for city specific trips for the California to Texas drive.

San Francisco to Austin road trip

While most of the road trip stops remain the same, the route changes a bit as you near Austin.

If taking the I-10, take the US-290 after Junction, Texas.

This scenic drive passes through Fredericksburg, one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas.

Then drive via Johnson City and Dripping Springs to Austin.

San Diego, California to Houston road trip

After leaving San Diego, you will be driving close to the Mexican border along I-8.

You will be passing towns such as Yuma and Aztec before joining the I-10 in Arizona.

The San Diego to Texas road trip is a great option for RVers since there are several RV campgrounds along the way.

Other options to extend Texas California Road Trip

Driving from Texas to California and looking for ways to explore the Golden State?

After reaching Los Angeles, you can either drive up or down the coast along the Pacific Coast Highway. 

San Diego , located in southern California, is famous for its laid back vibe and stunning beaches.

It is a beautiful place to visit.

You can easily reach San Diego by driving south along the coastal highway from Los Angeles.

The city enjoys perfect, sunny weather year-round and has a variety of world class tourist attractions.

Visit amazing museums such as the Maritime Museum of San Diego or the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum or see the Spanish Colonial architecture in Balboa Park.

Enjoy the stunning beach at La Jolla Cove.

Take a stroll through downtown’s historic Gaslamp Quarter and enjoy sunshine on the Coronado Beach.

If you have kids, visit the SeaWorld San Diego for its rides and animal shows or go on a whale watching tour.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a beautiful whitewashed city with striking Spanish colonial architecture.

Its beautiful location along the pacific Ocean makes it popular with visitors. 

Santa Barbara has plenty of attractions and activities, but it also offers beautiful scenery, beaches, and diverse culture.

Visit Santa Barbara’s most famous landmarks including Old Mission Santa Barbara, El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. 

Admire the view from the clocktower before heading down to the beach or taking a stroll on Stearns Wharf. 

Visit Big Sur on an epic San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway to see the best of Coastal California. 

The Big Sur region located along the central coast of California is home to miles and miles of untouched wilderness. 

Big Sur is located between Monterey and San Luis Obispo and encompasses over 150 miles of coastline.

It is one of the most beautiful places on earth and enchants visitors with its dramatic cliffs, towering redwood trees, crashing waves, unique rock formations, and sweeping vistas. 

There’s plenty of attractions for visitors in Big Sur : see the beautiful McWay Falls, hike through redwood forests, search for jade in hidden coves, explore sea caves in a kayak; enjoy whale-watching, or surf to your heart’s content.

The scenic area is a must on the west coast road trip from Texas!

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in America. 

Famous for its innovation, art, and technology, the City by The Bay has been attracting visitors since the Gold Rush days. 

Top things to do in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Alcatraz Island, and the museums. 

San Francisco’s diverse cuisine, vibrant neighborhoods, and bohemian vibe provide the perfect end to the Texas California drive.

If you are not interested in California’s beaches, then another great option is to take the Grand Canyon – Las Vegas – Death Valley route and then continue in California on SR 395 to Lake Tahoe in northern California. 

This road will take you to Yosemite from the eastern Lee Vining entrance and also past Mammoth Lakes.

Enjoy the hiking trails and the Sierra Nevada scenery in northern California. 

Alabama Hills

The Alabama Hills is a mountain range in the Eastern Sierra Nevada of California.

The name comes from Alabama white marble, which was quarried here during the late 19th century. 

The hills offer breathtaking views and are great for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.

Located in the Mojave Desert, this dramatic landscape is a popular filming location as well as Instagram hotspot. 

To reach Alabama Hills, continue on Route 395 up to Lone Pine then follow the signs to the natural area. 

Manzanar National Historic Site

Manzanar National Historic Site preserves the ruins of a Japanese American internment camp where Japanese Americans were interned during World War II.

Visitors to the site can learn about the hardships of those living there including inadequate cooling and heating, rationed food, and hard labor as well as gain a unique insight into this dark chapter of American history.

Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is a beautiful alpine town in Eastern California. 

It is located at the base of Mount Whitney and offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic vistas.

The lakes located nearby are popular for fishing, hiking, swimming, kayaking, or just enjoying the scenic views.

In winter, Mammoth Lakes is a popular skiing destination in California. 

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited national parks in America. 

The park is home to some of the tallest waterfalls including the Yosemite Falls and Bridal veil Falls which are both over 2,000 feet high! 

Inside Yosemite, you will also find some of the biggest trees in North America – the giant sequoia trees! 

Highway 395 will take you to Yosemite via the eastern entrance near Lee Vinings. 

This entrance is open only during the summer months from May through October and offers a more serene, less crowded experience.

Bodie Ghost Town

Located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, you will find the Bodie ghost town.

It is an amazing place to visit. 

Today an abandoned town, Bodie was once a prosperous mining town and home to over 10,000 people.

The Bodie State Historic Park excellently preserves the town and its historic buildings and offers a fascinating glimpse into life as it existed over 100 years ago.

Visitors can see over 80 buildings including banks, saloons, schools, stores, and churches. 

At the end of the road, you will find Lake Tahoe. 

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and attracts over 3.5 million annual visitors. 

This is one of the largest and deepest lakes in the US. It is famous for its stunning blue color and an incredible shoreline with granite rock formations.

Popular summer activities include hiking, biking, and scenic drives while in the winter Lake Tahoe is popular for snowshoeing and skiing. 

After seeing Lake Tahoe, make your way back to Texas or explore more of California on an amazing Northern California road trip. 

Texas to California is the ultimate family road trip vacation.

You will see a variety of beautiful landscapes and world class attractions including museums and zoos. 

The best road trip from Texas to California offers an amazing educational experience for the kids and one of our favorite things to do in the American southwest.

We hope you liked our post on planning a Texas to California road trip itinerary. 

• Real Estate
• Attractions

Search LaJolla.com

Road Trip Guide: California To Texas Drive

Wide open spaces, invigorating views, inspiring landscapes – that and so much more awaits you as you set off on an adventure of a lifetime when driving from California to Texas.   

Granted, a long road trip like this might seem a bit intimidating in length and breadth, but don’t let distance and time of travel discourage you. Why? Because like the ancient Taoist philosophy states, “ The journey is the reward.”  

To be sure, this Cali to Texas drive is an epic journey you won’t regret, and rewards will spill towards you from every curve in the highway and enchantments will greet you with every cloud bouncing across your windshield.

Table of Contents

Here’s what you can do on your cali to texas drive, how many days does it take to drive from california to texas, visit the beaches in san diego, lions, tigers, and bears in pine valley, golden acorn casino for lunch, desert view tower, yuma proving ground open air museum, texas canyon, zuhl museum: home of the zuhl collection, visit a buc-ee’s, what to do when you get to texas, final thoughts on road tripping from california to texas.

From frolicking in the sand at a sunny beach in San Diego , to horseback riding in the prairies of the Lone Star State, and savoring sensational stops in Arizona and New Mexico – there is virtually no limit to the excitement and merry-making you can have on your California to Texas road trip.

If you’re beginning your odyssey in California, start off with brunch in San Diego at Duke’s while watching sea lions off the La Jolla Cove.  As you make your way to Arizona, you can stop to appreciate the art galleries and shops in Tucson as well as visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.  

Once you venture into New Mexico, enjoy a change of pace by sampling stellar wineries like the Rio Grande Winery in Las Cruces.  When you cross into Texas, don’t miss checking out Big Spring and the Comanche Trail Park which commemorates the history of the Great Comanche War Trail. 

Clearly, there is no limit to the sights, good eats, delights and activities you’ll find yourself relishing when you embark on your great California to Texas drive. Have we sparked your wandering spirit yet? If so, read on for highlights and must-see stops during your mega road trip.

You have two main options for your California to Texas road trip. You can take I-40, which takes you through upper New Mexico and Arizona and that trip is around 20 hours one-way.  Or, you can opt to take I-10, which is the lower route through the four states landing you in San Diego.

The fastest route when taking a California to Texas road trip is via I-40. The distance from Texas to California by driving this route is a little over 20 hours, and 1,408 miles crossing through Arizona and New Mexico along the way.  If you’re hellbent to get to your destination as quickly as possible, you could technically take this route and complete your one-way trip in one day.  

However, if your preferences lean more towards exploration and adventure, we definitely encourage you to take as many days possible to amble, mosey, and meander through all the history and wild wonders this Southwest tour offers. 

Where Should I Stop on a Road Trip From Texas to California?

As you are presented with miles of vast beauty and striking scenes, you’ll likely get the sense that the open road is taking on a life of its own.  This kind of road trip invokes magic, and it’s full of potential.  

Because a California to Texas road trip can be wholly engrossing and enchanting, you might be compelled to make stops you might not normally take.  You may even find yourself indulging in local foods or festivals outside of your typical comfort zone.  

That’s the beauty of going the distance – it’s about submerging yourself deeply into new, Southwestern sensations.  However, if you prefer to have an agenda or an itinerary of stops for your California to Texas drive, here are a few suggestions you’ll want to plan for your trip.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit SD (@visit_san_diego)

Whether you’re traveling with family, going solo, or tackling your road trip with your furry canine friend, the beaches in San Diego can accommodate your every thrill and pleasure.  Christen your road trip first by buckling in your pooch and heading out to Del Mar North Dog Beach, La Jolla Shores, Ocean Beach Dog Beach or Fiesta Island Dog Park where Fido can swim, run, and play before heading back on the road.  

The whole family will enjoy splashing in La Jolla Cove, Windansea Beach or Del Mar City Beach. All of these beaches are rife with quintessential seaside views, striking sunrises and sunsets and offer plenty of opportunities to relax before hitting the interstate towards Texas.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lions Tigers & Bears (@lionstigers_andbears)

If you start out your pilgrimage to Texas via Interstate 8, then the Lions, Tigers, and Bears should absolutely be on your list of go-to destinations.  This is a big cat and exotic animal rescue that guarantees to be a thrilling treat for travelers of any age. Located in Alpine, CA, this animal sanctuary spans 93 acres on the edge of Cleveland National Forest where visitors witness 19 species of wild, rescued animals roaming around the majestic meadows and hilly terrain. Feast your eyes on mountain lions, leopards, bobcats – and of course, lions, tigers and bears, oh my!  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Golden Acorn Casino (@goldenacorncasinosd)

After whooping it up with the wild things in Pine Valley, continue on I-8 and stop at the Golden Acorn Casino for a spot to eat.  This is a full-on travel center, and can accommodate all your needs.  Their Golden Grill serves up succulent prime rib, sublime seafood dishes, salads, soups and an impressive array of entrees.  If you want a quick bite, check out their Del Oro Deli where you can slake your hunger with a juicy burger with fries, a slice of pizza, buffalo wings, burritos, bowls or finely crafted sandwiches. After a hearty meal or fast luncheon, don’t miss the chance to press your luck at their one among their 350 slot machines.  And don’t forget to fill up on gas before you leave, because the Golden Acorn claims the cheapest fuel prices in the area.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by desertviewtower (@desertviewtower)

After filling your gas tank and your belly (and hopefully your wallet with your casino winnings) at the Golden Acorn, keep going east on I-8 and check out the stone tower standing 70 feet tall in the sleepy town of Jacumba, CA.  After climbing the height of the Desert View Tower, you’ll have an eagle’s eye view of the almost alien-looking rocky landscape below.  While you’re exploring the area, you’ve got to tour the footpaths of Boulder Park which features bizarre rock formations as well as stone sculptures which (along with the Tower) are registered as official California Historical Landmarks.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (@yumaprovingground)

For the military enthusiasts in your entourage, head further out on I-8 and visit this historical military gem. The Yuma Proving Ground and Open Air Museum covers over 70 years of memorabilia, historical milestones, and galleries featuring military testing that has served our country from World War II to the present day. Check out the “Big Guns” on display along Highway 95 featuring the M65 Atomic Cannon and the Patton Tank Series.  You can also opt for a guided tour and see exhibits such as replicas of staff duty offices and a military canine village display.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tricia (@triciadollkennedy)

If you’re traveling to Texas via Interstate 10, take a breather in Cochise, AZ where the rock alchemy of Texas Canyon awaits.  Become swept away by the majesty of the Little Dragoon Mountains become mesmerized by the eerie beauty of the rock formations along the San Pedro River. There is a slew of hiking and walking trails that beckons you to explore all manner of nooks and crannies sprawling across 19 miles. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of native coyotes, bobcats, deer as well as raptors gliding in the clear blue sky and lizards skittering on sun-baked stones.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NMSU Zuhl Museum (@nmsu_zuhl_museum)

A short 3-hour drive on Interstate 10 from Texas Canyon in AZ you’ll stumble across a serious treasure in the Zuhl Museum at the New Mexico State University. Here you will find a dazzling array of ancient fossils, variegated petrified wood, and rich specimens of minerals and robust stones rendered from centuries of evolution.  You’ll find yourself gawking in wonder at over 1,000 natural treasures in the Zuhl Collection that have the history of the earth and New Mexico soil locked in their stony, fossilized hearts. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Buc-ee's (@bucees)

You know you’re in Texas when you come across a Buc-ee’s fuel station and travel center. You owe it to yourself to stop in when you see the beckoning billboards to “visit the beaver.” The ballcap bearing, Buc-ee beaver is the beloved mascot of these gas stations renowned for their immaculately clean bathrooms.  Buc-ee’s is more like a cult classic than a gas station. Sure, you can fuel up your car, but Buc-ee’s also lets you fill up on amazing foods like downhome barbeque , fresh-made sandwiches, salads, and more.  If that doesn’t get your mouth watering, lay in a snack from their huge array of munchables like their famous Buc-ee Beaver Nuggets, beef jerky, candies, artisanal corn, or potato chips.  They also have a slew of world-famous jams, jellies, rubs, spices, sauces, salsa – oh yeah!  And if you need to pick up souvenirs for the folks waiting for you in Texas – Buc-ee’s has you covered in spades.  From hilarious beaver-clad t-shirts to ornately designed home decor and lawn ornaments, you are certain to find the perfect quirky gift for a loved one (or yourself).

Admittedly, Buc-ee’s is almost worth the California to Texas drive, but you know the Lone Star State has far more to enjoy, experience, and appreciate than just a funky beaver in a red ball cap.  What to do when you get to Texas ultimately depends upon your final destination.  For instance, if you’re headed towards the state capitol of Austin where the motto is “keep it weird,” you’ve got to visit the capitol building as well as witness the bats flying at dusk from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge.  

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Go City® (@gocity)

If San Antonio is on your radar, you’ve got tour the historical Alamo! A stone’s throw away from the Alamo is the River Walk where you can sample mind-blowingly good food, shopping at one-of-a-kind boutiques, and maybe even lolling in a boat along the River Walk while learning about the history of San Antonio from an experienced river guide. And if you’re spending any time in the area, be sure to check into the San Antonio JW Marriott where you can indulge in its resort atmosphere and pamper yourself with its deluxe spa treatments.

If you want the whole cowboy experience, then you should mosey out to the historical Fort Worth Stockyards. Since the 1800s, this has been the happening hub for cattle selling and buying, and the heart of industry that helped forge the city into the noble, rustic empire it is today.  Much of the Stockyards have been preserved, so it’s like stepping back in time.  Visit famous, authentic saloons for a sipping glass of sarsaparilla. Then walk down the cobblestone main street for shopping as you’ve never experienced before. Stick around for the nightlife because you’re bound to catch classic country and western musicians crooning while you enjoy a Lone Star beer and a heaping plate of barbeque brisket.

To be sure, there is nothing that can compare to the vibrant energy and potential you’ll encounter when driving from California to Texas. Not only are the folks along this epic Southwestern route friendly and happy to show you all the greatest highlights their region has to offer – you’ll also discover hidden treasures with every passing mile.  

As you roll through California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, and absorb the glorious beauty these states bestow upon you – your imagination is bound to wander like tumbleweeds across a cactus-studded desert, your mind will begin to loosen, and you’ll start to feel like a native within these incredibly wild, wonderful lands.  So tarry no longer.  Take the first step to an unforgettable odyssey and start motoring through the most enchanting lands of the US during your California to Texas road trip. 

About the author : Avia is the published author of The Idiot’s Guide to the Tarot and Exploring the Radiant Rider-Waite , and her writing has been featured in publications such as Woman’s World and Sedona magazines. When she’s not reading or blogging, she’s baking scrummy treats for her three dogs, crocheting, or improving her calligraphy. You can say “howdy” and find out what Avia is up to on her LinkedIn profile.

Named after Pearl Street in La Jolla, Pearl is the unofficial mascot of the various elves on the daily news desk at LaJolla.com. We’re writers, editors, and people who work on websites; sometimes so many people work on one project that no one feels like they should take the credit.

Comments are closed.

Related Articles

Copyright © LaJolla.com 2022. All rights reserved.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

SIXT rent a car Magazine

Travel Tips and News

California to Texas Road Trip: Southwestern Scenery and Texan charm

You will experience the desert plains, red rocks, traditional Pueblo cliff dwellings, and the American West on this exciting California to Texas road trip. 

This California to Texas road trip route has a little bit of everything, from outdoor adventures to spa treatments. From Los Angeles, you’ll head east and explore the desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Then, continuing to Sedona, Arizona, you’ll find yourself surrounded by red rock formations. From there you’ll go into the heart of the American Southwest in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Finally, you’ll make your way south to experience two sides of Texas, traditional in Amarillo and modern in Austin. 

1. Los Angeles 2. Joshua Tree National Park 3. Sedona, AZ 4. Santa Fe, NM 5. Amarillo, Texas 6. Austin, Texas

Info at a glance

• Type of route: Nature
• 6 stops along the route
• Distance: 1657 miles of driving
• Explore the unique desert landscape in Joshua Tree National Park. 
• Hike through the red rocks in the high desert landscape of Sedona. 
• Visit Pueblo cliff dwellings in Santa Fe. 
• Ride in an authentic chuck wagon and learn about Western history in Amarillo. 
• Dance to live music in downtown Austin. 

Getting to the start

The road trip starts in Los Angeles, California . If you’re coming from another part of the country, you can fly into the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and rent a car from there. You will find plenty of rental companies in and around the airport. If you’re arriving in Los Angeles with your own car or another vehicle, you can take most major highways, like Interstate 5, I-10, and Highway 101 to get to the starting point.

CAR RENTAL IN LOS ANGELES

When to Visit

This road trip can be done year-round without concern for winter weather affecting your travel plans. Keep in mind that much of this trip is in the desert, so it’s best to avoid the summer months from June to August. Be sure to pack good walking shoes or hiking boots. The desert sun can be intense, so don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat. Also, be prepared and pack layers, as desert evenings can be cool. 

Driving tips

The maximum speed limit on most California interstates and highways is 65 miles per hour. You may encounter some heavy traffic on your way out of LA at the start of the road trip. Just take it slow and be aware of unexpected traffic jams. Once you get into Arizona and New Mexico, the speed limit goes up to 75 mph. This route does have tolls, so be sure to look out for the signs and be prepared with cash or other toll payment options. 

What to know about the route

On this 1,400-mile road trip, you will be treated to all the beauty that the American Southwest has to offer. Beginning in Los Angeles, you’ll drive east along I-10, stopping in Joshua Tree National Park, where you can explore the magical desert scenery and stargaze under the night sky. From there, you will continue east and begin to make your way north along I-17 to your stop in Sedona. Here you can marvel at the red rock formations of Arizona’s high desert. Then, you will make your way along I-40 to the next stop in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Here you can immerse yourself in Native American culture and visit the museums and former Pueblo dwellings. The next stop is Amarillo, Texas, for a taste of the traditional American West and historic Route 66. Head further south to see a different side of Texas in modern, vibrant Austin. You can enjoy all the live music and nightlife that the city has to offer and end your trip in style. Models such as an SUV or a sedan will provide you with space and comfort during your trip.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a spread-out city, and it can be challenging to get around. Plan your excursions around the rush hour periods, or utilize the newly expanded metro system when possible. It’s a good idea to stay close to the attractions you want to visit to reduce the amount of time you’re stuck in traffic.

Points of interest

Check out the beaches and pier in Santa Monica. From there, head to the Venice boardwalk for some truly interesting people-watching. Visit Griffith Park for great hiking and a perfect view of the Hollywood sign. From there, you can cruise down Sunset Boulevard to enjoy a night on the town at one of the many trendy bars and restaurants. 

Where to eat, drink and sleep

The Los Angeles dining scene has something for everyone, from cozy hole-in-the-walls to upscale hotspots. If you want a taste of the Hollywood scene, check out the bars and restaurants along Sunset Boulevard. For dinner with an ocean view, check out Nobu or Malibu Farm for an unforgettable brunch. 

Sixt Insider Tip

Hike or drive up to the Griffith Observatory. The building is beautiful, admission to the observatory is free, and you will get a spectacular view of the city from above. The Hollywood sign is also in Griffith Park and can be seen on a sunset horseback ride through the hills.

From Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park (131 miles)

Joshua tree national park.

The national park is open 24 hours a day, although the visitor’s center has different hours. A vehicle permit is good for 7 days. There aren’t many facilities once you get to the park, so be sure to stock up on water, food and other essentials beforehand. 

Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden, located about 12 miles south of the visitor’s center. You can reach the garden via a short, quarter-mile long nature trail. Skull Rock is another popular stop for visitors. It’s located along the main park road, so you can pull right up to it and explore the short nature trail around it.  

The nearest towns to stay in are Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley. For a more unique experience check out the Bonita Domes, a community of small earth domes that are located right outside of the park. You could also choose to camp in the park, just be sure you are prepared. For dining, the Joshua Tree Saloon is a favorite among visitors and has live music several days a week.

Joshua Tree National Park is just as beautiful at night. You can enjoy the night sky by camping in the park or driving in; the park gates are open 24 hours.

From Joshua Tree National Park to Sedona, Arizona (300 miles)

From Joshua Tree, you will continue along I-10 through the desert and then up into the mountains. The mountain roads can be steep and windy, so drive with caution. Take a break in Prescott, Arizona to stretch and get some lunch before driving the rest of the way to your next stop.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is home to stunning red rock formations. It is a perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and enriching the mind, body and soul. You can spend your days walking through the red rocks, attending yoga classes, getting pampered at the spa or taking part in healing workshops. You are sure to leave refreshed and rejuvenated. 

The red rock formations are the main attraction in Sedona. Several are known to be energy vortexes; Airport Mesa and Cathedral Rock are a few favorites and offer some of the most breathtaking views. Take a break from hiking at the Tlaquepaque arts and shopping village.

Sedona has a variety of different lodging options. We recommend checking out one of the many boutique hotels or bed-and-breakfasts for a more personal experience. A Sunset Chateau and The Sedona Dream Maker B&B are traveler favorites. For dining, don’t miss Chocolatree for organic, plant-based cuisine and delicious handmade chocolates. 

If you’re looking for a place for peace and quiet reflection, make a visit to the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park, located at the base of Thunder Mountain. A short, winding trail leads you up to a 36-foot stupa, the only one in Arizona. The park is open every day and admission is free, although donations are suggested. 

From Sedona, Arizona to Santa Fe, New Mexico (412 miles)

After leaving Sedona, you’ll continue east along I-40. This section of interstate runs directly through Petrified Forest National Park. The small size of the park makes it accessible and easy to enjoy in as little as a few hours. You can choose to simply drive through or do a short hike. Just be sure to check the park hours before visiting.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is known for its vibrant arts culture and rich history. We recommend spending several days here to explore the arts scene, immerse yourself in Native American culture and visit the museums and historical sites. There are also plenty of natural wonders to be enjoyed by hiking the nearby trails or going for a rafting trip down the Rio Grande. 

For insight into a legendary artist, visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Take a stroll along Canyon Road in the arts district to enjoy all the galleries, artist studios and shops. Dive into Native American history with a visit to the Puye Cliff Dwellings, a national historic landmark that once sheltered 1,500 Pueblo people.  

Stay in secluded luxury at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. El Pueblo Bonito Bed & Breakfast Inn gives you an authentic Santa Fe experience in their historic adobe accommodations. For dining, check out the innovative Southwestern fare and stunning dining room at La Plazuela. After dinner, enjoy a unique and distinctive hard kombucha at HoneyMoon Brewery. 

For a truly unique and immersive experience, visit the House of Eternal Return by the Meow Wolf production company. This elaborate art installation consists of 70 different interconnecting spaces and guides visitors through a story. The exhibit is open every day, except Tuesdays, and buying tickets ahead of time is recommended.  

From Santa Fe, New Mexico to Amarillo, Texas (280 miles)

From Santa Fe, continue along I-40 East into the Texas Panhandle. Along this stretch of interstate, you’ll get a taste of the wide-open American West. You’ll only pass through a few small towns, so gas stations and rest stops will be limited. Be sure to fill up the gas tank before you leave Santa Fe. 

Amarillo, Texas

A stop in Amarillo, along historic Route 66, is a great way to spend a few days and appreciate this unique spot where the Southern Plains meet the desert. Here you will find a blend of two eras, with working western ranches alongside specialty shops and microbreweries.  

Check out the Route 66 Historic District to explore the many galleries, shops, restaurants and bars. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Palo Duro Canyon located 30 miles south of Amarillo. This state park features hiking and biking trails, but as this is cowboy country, the canyon is best experienced on horseback. 

For a quiet stay on the outskirts of town, check out River Falls Bed and Breakfast. La Casita Del Sol is known for its romantic environment and proximity to great restaurants. Or enjoy a big steak and a hand-crafted beer at the Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery. 

For a true experience of the American West, check out Cowboys and Cowgirls in the West. This adventure tour and event company offers horseback riding and chuckwagon events on their ranch along Route 66. They also offer speaking and training events focused on Western history.

From Amarillo, Texas to Austin, Texas (486 miles)

Head south from Amarillo via I-27 that takes you to US-84. This is a long driving day, so take a break and stretch your legs at Lake Brownwood and fuel up with lunch at the Wild Duck Marina. This route has tolls so be aware of the signs and have cash or other means of payment available. 

Austin, Texas

The final stop, Austin, has a lot to offer and you’ll want to spend at least a few days exploring this vibrant, growing city. It has a big arts and nightlife scene downtown, and the city is known for the live music venues. As if that’s not enough, there’s an array of outdoor activities to round out your trip to this eclectic city. 

Visit the Sixth Street neighborhood for a variety of bars, restaurants, and live entertainment venues, like Parish. Venture outdoors to McKinney Falls State Park and explore the acres of hiking and cycling trails. Austin is also known for its creativity. Get a taste of the local artistic talent with a trip to the studios and galleries in West Austin. 

Check out the upscale, rustic vibes at Lone Star Court boutique hotel. Follow the bright signature neon sign on to the iconic Austin Motel. Start your day with an inventive, paleo-friendly breakfast from Picnik. Spend your evening sipping a cocktail in a former firehouse-turned speakeasy at the Firehouse Lounge.

Austin loves to celebrate music and is host to a wide variety of different festivals. It’s good to know the dates of large festivals, such as Austin City Limits and SXSW, as they may impact your ability to find a hotel room.

Book Texas Car Rental

Sixt in the USA

• Car rental Orlando Airport
• Car rental JFK
• Car rental Dallas Airport
• Car rental Atlanta Airport
• Car rental Chicago Airport
• Car rental Denver Airport
• Car rental Houston Airport
• Car rental Miami Airport
• Car rental SeaTac Airport
• Car rental Las Vegas Airport
• Car rental LAX
• All Sixt US Locations
• Long-term car rental
• Luxury car rental

SIXT WORLDWIDE

All SIXT Services

Follow us on.

The Perfect 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Plan the ultimate Texas road trip itinerary that includes national parks, hiking trails, and must-see cities around the Lone Star State.

Thinking about making your way south to visit Texas ? This epic 10-day Texas road trip shows you how you can experience the best that the Lone Star State has to offer.

The bulk of this 10-day itinerary is focused on central Texas where major highways form a meticulous triangle. By following this route you can experience major cities and state capitols, all the while learning just why everything is bigger in Texas!

Beginning in Dallas, you’ll venture even further by exploring Texas’ underrate nature and a past that continues to influence the wider country.

In reality, Texas is a massive state. You’d need much longer than 10 days to really see the entire state on an epic Texas road trip. So if you do have more time to spare, you can always add to this itinerary through many of the posts that we link to along the way.

But for the purpose of this Texas road trip itinerary, we’ll be focusing on the easily accessible highlights of Central Texas.

Find more ideas with our ultimate list of the best things to do in Texas !

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 2 alternative – amarillo day trip from dallas, where to stay in austin, along the way to austin from dallas – waco, day 4 alternative – texas hill country, where to stay in san antonio, where to stay in corpus christi, where to stay in houston, where to stay in galveston, day 10 – return to dallas/houston, the wrap up, the perfect texas road trip itinerary.

Texas can be explored in a number of ways. From taking domestic flights to guided tours, this huge state has so much to offer. But a Texas road trip is a quintessential way to experience the Lone Star State!

During these 10 days, you’ll see charming small towns, magnificent cities, and natural beauty. This road trip in Texas is the perfect introduction to the second-largest state in the continental US!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 1 of your Texas road trip begins in Dallas . At the top of a trio of highways that form a triangle through the heart of Texas, you’re well-placed to begin a road trip of a lifetime.

Here in Dallas, you’ll find a blend of art, history, nature, and sport. Add on a second day in Fort Worth, and you can explore the history of cattle ranches before dancing the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas.

Dallas Arts District

Encompassing the largest arts district in the nation, exploring the Dallas Arts District is the best way to start your journey through Triple D . Here, you’ll discover 20 blocks of galleries and museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art.

This thorough 3-hour tour of Dallas, not only takes you through the district but to the Klyde Warren Park and Memorial Plaza.

Sixth Floor Museum

In 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald entered the Texas School Book Depository and changed American history. Now the Sixth Floor Museum, learn all about this tragic event, including the hours before along with the emotional aftermath.

• Address:  411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Wed-Sun)
• Price:  $18

Klyde Warren Park

Escape the bustle of downtown Dallas with a relaxing picnic at Klyde Warren Park. Not far from the Arts District, the park features a thriving food truck scene and regular events including movie nights.

• Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

A highlight of the Dallas Arts District, the Perot Museum of Nature & Science is a must-see. Featuring almost a dozen halls spread over five floors, you can dive into the topics of engineering, evolution, and earth.

• Address:  2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Mon, Wed-Sat) 11 am-5 pm (Sun)
• Price:  $20

African American Museum

Set in Fair Park, the African American Museum is believed to be the first of its kind. Home to a thorough collection of artifacts, documents, and art, it’s an incredible way to explore the history and culture of African Americans.

• Address:  3536 Grand Ave, Fair Park, Dallas, TX 75210
• Hours:  11 am-5 pm (Tue-Fri) 10 am-5 pm (Sat)
• Price:  Free

Want to extend to 3 days in Dallas? Check out our Dallas Itinerary !

AT&T Stadium

On day 2 of your Texas road trip, it’s time to explore neighboring Fort Worth. Along the way, you’ll pass Arlington, home to the Dallas Cowboys and AT&T Stadium.

This spectacular stadium can seat 80,000 fans and houses what was once a record-breaking jumbotron. Go watch the Cowboys or sign up for a stadium tour.

Leave the car at home with this tour of AT&T Stadium that includes transportation.

• Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Sundance Square

Spanning 35 blocks, Sundance Square represents the beating heart of Fort Worth. Old brick roads guide you by eye-catching architecture, including the historic Tarrant County Courthouse. Enjoy Texan cuisine, scratch your shopping itch, and stick around for the boisterous nightlife.

Kimbell Art Museum

Known as much for its architecture as its art, the Kimbell Art Museum quickly captures your imagination. Featuring art and antiquities from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, the galley covers a range of eras and styles with works from the likes of Picasso and Monet.

• Address:  3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Tue-Thur, Sat) 12 pm-8 pm (Fri & Sun), closed Monday

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a unique look into Texas’ connection to ranching and cowboys. Every day on Exchange Avenue, modern-day cowboys and cowgirls guide longhorns down the historic street. You can learn more about why at the Livestock Exchange.

Billy Bob’s Texas

Come sundown, the Stockyards is one of the best places for nightlife in Texas. Here, you’ll find Billy Bob’s Texas where you can go boot scootin’ crazy and indulge in some classic honky tonk!

• Address: 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164

You can combine your Dallas experience with a day at Fort Worth on this guided tour .

At Hotel Crescent Court , you’ll feel right at home in your opulent setting before opening the ornate French doors for your own private balcony.

With cable TV, an on-site pool and a restaurant, Hampton Inn & Suites is a great place to recuperate as you explore downtown Dallas.

Close to nightlife and local culture, SOVA puts you in the heart of the action at a budget-friendly price.

Are you excited to explore Dallas and Fort Worth in greater depth? Read up on the complete list of things to do in Dallas right here.

This drive takes 5.5 hours from downtown Dallas.

Rather than spending a day in Fort Worth, start your day bright and early to make your way to Amarillo. As you drive into the more remote northwestern Texas, you’ll begin to see a different set of micro-cultures to go along with an increase in Stetsons, wild ponies, and dusty side roads.

Amarillo is a unique, quirky town that boasts a stop along historic Route 66 on top of being the gateway to Texas’ western frontier. It’s a great, historical stop on your Texas road trip!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one of the most interesting roadside attractions in Texas. Right off I-40, the “ranch” features the frontends of 10 Cadillacs buried in the Texan dirt. Decorated with a kaleidoscopic use of spray paint, it’s one of those things you wouldn’t see anywhere but Amarillo.

• Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124

Sixth Street Historic District

Home to 13 blocks of Route 66 fame, the Sixth Street Historic District dates back to the 1920s. The collection of old-time commercial buildings recalls the heyday of Amarillo and features Art Deco, Art Moderne, and Spanish Revival architecture.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

A classic West Texas experience, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum explores the history of the world’s most popular horse breed. Hands-on exhibits and events take you back in time to the height of cattle herding.

• Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104
• Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, Closed Sundays and Mondays

Day 3 & 4 – Austin

This drive takes 3 hours from downtown Dallas

Whether you’ve taken a day trip to Amarillo or decided to just stay in Dallas, next you’ll be heading south to Austin along I-35. We recommend stopping in Waco on the way, which we’ll provide more details about shortly.

Austin is a beautiful mix of arts, culture, and color mixed in with all the things you’ve come to know and love about Texas. Unique neighborhoods abound in Austin. Add on ample outdoor activities, it’s best to give yourself at least two nights to explore what Austin has to offer.

One way to split your 48 hours up is by separating the attractions on either side of the surging Colorado River.

Read Next: Find out what other destinations made our list of the best places to visit in Texas !

Downtown Austin

Towering skyscrapers, museums, street art, and mouthwatering Tex-Mex lies in wait in downtown Austin. Spend your morning at the Museum of Weird or the Mexic-Arte Museum before enjoying some takeout food along the nearby waterfront.

See the best of downtown, along with South Congress on this e-bike tour .

Texas State Capitol

Nearby is the Texas State Capitol looming proudly over the rest of the city. The 19th-century building is one of the tallest government buildings in the country, with a beautiful dome and spire reaching over 300 feet. Join a guided tour to learn more about its history and stunning architecture.

• Address: 1100 Congress Ave
• Hours: 7 am – 8 pm (opens at 9 am on weekends)

University of Texas

Home to the iconic Texas Longhorns, the University of Texas is the place to be in the fall. But there’s more to this campus than just football. Explore to find the captivating Blanton Museum of Art, along with the Natural Science Center and the Memorial Museum.

Sunset at Congress Avenue Bridge

There’s no better place to be in Austin at sunset than the Congress Avenue Bridge. Boasting the largest urban bat colony in the world, all 1.5 million of them depart once the sun touches the horizon.

Such is the heady number, it can take 45 minutes to finish all the while the sky burns bright amber.

Watch the event from the Colorado River on a kayak tour .

The Dirty Sixth

To burn the midnight oil in Austin head to the Dirty Sixth. This rowdy nightlife strip harbors bustling music venues, pumping clubs, and dim-lit bars, perfect for enjoying a drink and reflecting on the road trip thus far.

Rainey Street Historic District

The alternative to the Dirty Sixth is Rainey Street Historic District. The revitalized old district is more laid back than Sixth Street with high-end eateries, vibrant bars, and charming, old-school pubs.

Lady Bird Lake

Nurse your hangover with a trip to Lady Bird Lake. When in Austin, you’re never far from nature, and you’ll find beautiful walking and biking trails from which to explore. Stop at Zilker Park for downtown views or paddle out on the lake with your traveling crew.

South Congress

Now that you’re back to normal, head to South Congress the hotbed of the Keep Austin Weird movement. Filled with kitschy shops, street art, and teeming with food trucks, it’s the place to stay weird, enjoy sprawling murals, and feast on delightful cuisine.

The Cathedral of Junk

Speaking of weird, the Cathedral of Junk finishes in the first place. The gallery of junk is spread through a simple backyard featuring a conglomerate of random items from engines to spooky mannequins.

Travelers must call ahead before visiting.

• Address: 4422 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745
• Cost: Donation based

McKinney Falls State Park

If you haven’t quenched your thirst for nature yet on this Texas road trip, head to McKinney Falls State Park. Venture along the Onion Creek Hike to see both the lower and upper falls. While only 10 miles from Austin, the change of pace and color along with the fresh air will have you ready to tackle the rest of this road trip.

Five-star opulence awaits at Hotel Saint Cecilia where you’ll enjoy, a la carte breakfast, an on-site pool, and free bike hire.

On Sixth Street, East Austin Hotel , is a 3-star hotel with cable TV, on-site restaurants, and close to the University of Texas.

In central, downtown Austin, the Firehouse Hostel provides a fun, atmosphere with modern amenities and close to nightlife.

Check out our post to learn more about the best things to do in Austin .

As you make your way from Dallas to Austin, get off Highway 35 for a quick stop in Waco. Home to the beautiful campus of Baylor University, you’ll find mouthwatering cuisine at local markets and plenty of kitschy shops to add to your road trip shopping bag.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

With your day now fully underway, replenish your energy stocks at Magnolia Market at the Silos. This small district features a handful of food trucks, along with the famous Silos Baking Co., to go along with the collection of live events, boutique stores, and a farmers’ market.

• Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
• Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (closed Sun)

Dr. Pepper Museum

America’s oldest major soda brand was founded right here in Waco. This museum features three floors packed with exhibits that take you along Dr. Pepper’s timeline. The historic bottling plant even includes a Liquid Lab where you can attempt to make your own soda.

• Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
• Hours: 10 am – 5:30 pm (Mon to Sat) 12 pm – 5:30 pm Sun

Wooly Mammoth National Monument

Spanning five acres along the Bosque River, the Wooly Mammoth National Monument commemorates the discovery of a collection of Columbian mammoths found in Waco. The only discovery of its kind in the states, the monument provides a glimpse into the lives of the mammoths and the epic 3-decade excavation effort.

• Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
• Price: Free. Guided tours are $6

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Austin, Texas Itinerary

A guided tour of Austin may leave you feeling satisfied with your experience in the state capitol. If that’s the case, pack your car with all your day trip necessities and head to the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Featuring rolling hills, charming small towns, state parks, and elegant vineyards, it’s a lovely complement to Austin.

Pedernales Falls State Park

On route from Austin to the Texas Hill Country, stop off at Pedernales Falls State Park and soak up some natural beauty. One of the best things to do here is go for a swim in Hamilton Pool Preserve . This natural swimming hole is set in a dramatic canyon complete with limestone cliffs and a huge waterfall.

Other than Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls State Park has some awesome mountain biking and hiking trails.

Frederiksburg

There are a number of cozy German towns in the Texas Hill Country. The best? Frederiksburg. With eye-catching European architecture, Germanic cuisine, art galleries, and cute cafes, it’s a small town not to be missed.

Visit the Wineries

On this guided tour departing from Austin, venture into the countryside stopping at three award-winning wineries. Sample wines and local treats before exploring the beautiful, winding roads in a luxury van. This is a must for wine lovers going on Texas road trips!

Day 5 – San Antonio

This drive takes 1 hour and 20 minutes from downtown Austin.

After your visit to the Texas Hill Country, head south to San Antonio . Home to Spanish colonial missions and a thriving riverfront community, San Antonio thrives on surprising its visitors. This charming city is really a must-see on any road trip in Texas!

After a drive through the Texas Hill Country from Austin, be prepared to experience a unique city that balances prominent a Spanish past, with hints of the Wild West and modern Texan culture.

If you have time, extend your trip and spend 3 days in San Antonio !

San Antonio Missions

A National Historic Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the San Antonio Missions is a veritable gem that’s vital to America’s story. Covering five missions including the famous Alamo (San Antonio de Valero), you can learn all about the Spanish influence in this region.

The San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk is the heart of local culture and hospitality. Home to river parades, the edges of the San Antonio River are lined with refined restaurants and chic bars.

This nighttime tour takes you on a River Walk Cruise with a visit to the Tower of the Americas.

Historic Market Square

Covering three blocks, the Historic Market Square is a great way to put on your tourist hat and shop, eat and drink. The square also boasts the largest Mexican market, known as El Mercado, in the States. Afterward, load up on fresh goods at the Farmer’s Market Plaza.

Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered in the 1960s and are now the largest of their kind in the US. This guided experience allows you to skip the line and explore the vast cave network laden with stalactites and stalagmites.

Book your visit to the Natural Bridge Caverns on Get Your Guide !

Ranger Creek Brewing

It’s officially day 5 and halfway through your Texas road trip. Celebrate, reflect, and look forward to future adventures at Ranger Creek Brewing. Featuring more than just microbrews, you can enjoy small-batch craft whiskey before joining a guided tour.

• Address:  4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX
• Hours:  Monday – Thursday 10 am – 4 pm, Friday and Saturday 12 pm – 9 pm
• Cost:  Tours cost $15 and run every Saturday at 1 pm and 3 pm

Next to the River Walk, Hotel Emma offers guests a sun terrace with excellent views, a fitness center, and a pool, plus an on-site bar.

Wake up with a complimentary breakfast and wake up with a swim at Drury Plaza , before exploring San Antonio.

WaterWalk offers free daily breakfast, BBQ facilities, a fitness center, and a swimming pool all without hurting the wallet.

Day 6 & 7 – Corpus Christi

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown San Antonio.

After departing San Antonio on your Texas road trip, make your way south to Corpus Christi. Two days here may seem like a lot, but it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the captivating nature that South Texas has to offer.

Mustang Island

30 miles south of Corpus Christi is an 18-mile barrier island that is a boon for animal lovers and beach bums. Grab the towel and head to the wild sands of this protected area. Go for a swim in the Gulf, kayak along the rugged shorelines, and keep an eye out for the island’s 400 unique bird species.

Padre Island National Seashore

Established in 1962, the Padre Island National Seashore is the largest of its kind on earth. With 70 miles of untouched nature, explore a major bird migration spot and sea turtles or simply enjoy the views from the majestic coast.

South Padre Island

Contrasting to the previous day’s national seashore, the southern version offers a balance of humanity and natural wonders.

The beaches are delightful and there are family-friendly theme parks. However, you can’t beat a horse ride on the beach or a sunset yacht charter deep into the Gulf.

The Rio Grande

Staying in Corpus Christi provides you with an interesting opportunity to see the Rio Grande flow into the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the Las Palomas Wildlife area and be able to take a peak into the gulf coast of Mexico while enjoying one of the most southern points in mainland USA.

The Oceanside Retreat comes with beach views from your balcony, full kitchens, and walking distance to the shoreline.

Tru by Hilton provides upscale rooms with a swimming pool and fitness center all within a short drive of Mustang and North Padre Island.

The simple Knights Inn comes with beach views, cable TV, an outdoor pool, and BBQ facilities.

Day 8 – Houston

Next on your road trip in Texas, head up towards East Texas and spend some time in Houston . This diverse city has plenty of Texas history and nature to check out, plus there are a lot of great road trips to take from Houston !

Space Center Houston

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas, the Space Center Houston lives up to the hype. Dive into the history of space travel, visit Mission Control, and touch a rock that was returned from the moon! Finish up with exploring the thrilling Rocket Park.

• Address:  2101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
• Hours:  10 am-5 pm (Mon-Fri) 10 am-6 pm (Sat-Sun)
• Price:  $29.95

The Museum District

Home to 18 museums, (11 of which are free), Houston’s Museum District is as fascinating as it is budget-friendly. Highlights include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Menil Collection, and the Museum of Natural Science.

Buffalo Bayou Park

Enjoy some sunshine, a leisurely walk, and some cheese and crackers in Buffalo Bayou Park. This urban escape features a history water reservoir-turned-art-exhibit, plus old-time homes, beautiful, landscaped gardens, and some fun biking trails.

Find more things to do on this 3 Days In Houston Itinerary !

The La Colombe d’Or promises a memorable experience thanks to its Victorian decor, outdoor pool, and proximity to central Houston.

The Cambria provides road trippers with a central location and upscale amenities at a reasonable price.

At Wanderstay budget travelers will have a modern, themed hostel with spacious communal and dining areas.

Day 9 – Galveston

From Houston, head further into East Texas with a visit to the coastal city of Galveston . Here are the top things to do when you get there!

Stewart Beach

Not far from the Historic Pleasure Pier, Stewart Beach is the spot to get some sun, go for a swim, and enjoy your last full day. Snack stands will keep your thirst quenched and your hunger at bay, and be sure to rent an umbrella for some handy shade.

The historic Strand in Galveston is lined with elegant 19th-century architecture and where tales of the past ring along the walking path. Spread along five blocks, you’ll find the Opera House from 1894 and dozens of fun shops within ancient walls.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is Texas’ answer to the one in Santa Monica. Soaring out into the Gulf, enjoy the 15-plus rides, family-fun arcades, and the token fair hot dog.

At the George Manor , you’ll be staying in a historic building with included breakfast and an on-site restaurant while being within walking distance of the beach.

On the Galveston Seawall, enjoy ocean views, on-site bar, and fitness center at Clarion Pointe .

By East Beach, Wingate by Wyndham , provides an excellent location, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast at low cost.

From Galveston, it’s time for the last leg of your epic Texas road trip. To complete the Texas “triangle” drive north for 4.5 hours along I-45. For a shorter trip, drop your rental car off in Houston, which is under an hour away.

Well, there you have it folks, the perfect Texas road trip. Over ten days, you’ll hit up some of the state’s best cities, learn about important history and indulge in some local culture. But rest assured, there’s plenty of time for fun, whether that be in Fort Worth, Austin, or Galveston.

Such is the size of Texas, there are still some notable absentees. A larger West Texas road trip would help you explore Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. But iconic places like Big Bend and the surrounding national parks would require much more time.

But no matter how much time you spend in Texas, you’re sure to have a blast!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Fantastic Boston To Maine Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

14 Best Road Trips From Boston, USA (2024 Guide)

Amazing Houston To New Orleans Road Trip (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

36 of the best things to do in savannah, georgia (2024), the perfect kauai itinerary – 3, 5, and 7 day kauai itinerary options (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in lake tahoe, california (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in waikiki, hawaii (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Let us plan your trip for you

Roadtrippers Autopilot™ creates your itinerary based on what we’ve learned from over 38 million trips. You’re never more than a few clicks away from your next great adventure.

• Auto Travel

Let Autopilot take the wheel planning your next road trip, scenic drive, RV journey and everything in between. Then enjoy the ride while uncovering hidden gems along the way.

Get real-time traffic updates and access to wildfire smoke maps to stay informed and connected throughout your journey.

Collaborate

Share your itinerary with your copilots so they can help with the finishing touches.

Let Roadtrippers be your guide, navigating the twists and turns as you roam the open roads with confidence and ease.

Exclusive Access To Autopilot

Let us do the planning for you! Enter in a few key details and we’ll craft a custom tailored trip just for you.

Choose the right plan for you—and try it free for 7 days

Premium planning.

RV-Friendly Tools

Overnight RV Parking

Start free for 7 days

Then $35.99 (that's only $2.99/month), then $49.99 (that's only $4.17/month), then $59.99 (that's only $4.99/month).

† RV-Friendly routing features (including routing warnings for vehicle hazards and propane restrictions) are available in the U.S. only.

Free 7-day trial

Test drive the best features of Roadtrippers Premium for free! Eligible users will get exclusive access to all the tools needed to plan the perfect road trip.

Create a Roadtrippers account to start your 7-day free trial.

Already have a Roadtrippers account?

We need your email address

Before we can sign you up for Roadtrippers, we need your email address. Click the button below to go to your profile.

Plan your next adventure with a Roadtrippers Premium account

Due after 7-day free trial

Thank you for signing up for a Roadtrippers Subscription

Get started planning your next trip now!

Good news...you already have Roadtrippers!

Thanks for being one of our most dedicated users.

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

29 Best Road Trip Stops on a Texas to California Drive

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases at no extra cost to you. View details here. By purchasing items through the included links, you’ll help keep this site running. Thank you for your support!

A Texas-to-California drive is one epic road trip with a ton of unique sites to see. I’ve done this drive twice but on two different routes, one sticking south along the southern border and one through Northern Texas, going through Amarillo to visit the famed Route 66 attractions .

Driving from Texas to California allows you to see some of the most stunning and iconic attractions in the Southwestern United States, from hot springs and ghost towns to the Golden Gate Bridge and National Parks. No matter your final destination in California, a Texas to California road trip through America’s southwest should be high on your bucket list!

Table of Contents: Jump to

Road Trip at a Glance

How many days does a drive from texas to california take.

It takes at least two days to drive from Texas to California. However, this entirely depends on where you start and stop. One of the most direct routes from Central Texas (Dallas) to Southern California (Palm Springs) takes about 20 hours and is just over 1,300 miles following I-10

What states do you pass through to get to California from Texas?

The most direct route passes through New Mexico and Arizona to get to California from Texas.

What is the best route to drive from Texas to California?

The most popular routes to drive from Texas to California are the northern route, along I-40 (Route 66), or the southern route along I-10. The southern route is more scenic and takes you through an array of National Parks, while the northern route is perfect for those who want to experience the country’s most famous highway, quirky attractions and historic towns.

When is the best time to drive from Texas to California?

The best time for a Texas to California road trip, for optimal temperatures and road conditions, is March to May. Fall is another good time to drive from Texas to California.

Where Should I Start and End my Texas to California Road Trip?

Your Texas to California road trip will likely start from one of Texas’s four major cities: Austin, Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio. Dallas and Houston have the two major airports and are well connected to the rest of the state, making them great starting points.

There are two main routes that most people take when driving from Texas to California, the northern route along I-40 (Route 66) and the southern route along I-10.

I-20 runs across the center of Texas and is a great option if starting from Dallas. I-20 runs into I-10, heading west near Fort Davis.

However, if you are looking to skip out on driving across Texas altogether, start in a western city in Texas, such as Amarillo in the north or El Paso in the south.

Where to start in Texas

• Dallas : Dallas has the largest airport in the state (DFW) and is the perfect place to start your road trip and a fun city to explore on its own. It’s easily accessible to the northern route along Route 66 and features city highlights such as Deep Ellum, Bishops Arts districts, and dozens of fascinating museums. If you start your drive in March, make sure to stop at Texas-Tulips, a dutch tulip farm just north of the city.
• Amarillo : Amarillo, in northern Texas’ panhandle, is one of the most popular cities along Historic Route 66, with quirky diners, housing murals, and nostalgic gift shops. It’s a great place to begin a Texas to California road trip when wanting to go through Northern New Mexico to visit Tucumcari or Santa Fe. Make sure to stop at the Welcome to signs for Arizona and New Mexico at the border along I-40.
• Austin : Known as the Live Music Capitol of the World, Austin is one of the most exciting destinations in Texas. It’s full of nightlife, delicious cuisines, and a friendly and inviting atmosphere. It is a perfect place to explore and begin a road trip from Texas to California when wanting a bit of community, delicious grub and some outdoor adventures.
• El Paso : The border town of El Paso is the best place to start your Texas to California road trip if you want to bypass Texas altogether. It sits in the western panhandle and features a vast blend of American and Mexican cultures. 
• Houston : I-10 runs through Houston and allows you to drive the furthest along your road trip in Texas, offering the most to see and do. Houston, the largest city in Texas, is known for its NASA Space Center, and has a fun Theater district and historic center showing off 19th-century architecture. It is an epic starting point for a Texas to California drive. 

Where to End in California

Palm Springs or San Diego are two convenient final destinations when taking I-10 through southern Texas but there is a slew of other great options in southern California with easy access to some of the best destinations in northern California. It all depends on how much time you have and what kind of experiences you are looking forward to.

Southern California

• San Diego : California’s southernmost city of San Diego, is a melting pot of cultures and one of the most beloved cities in California. Ending here will allow you to enjoy the small seaside towns of La Jolla, Encinitas, and Oceanside and makes a great stopping point for those who want to relax on the beautiful California beaches, enjoy sunset cliffs Natural Park and indulge in delicious local cuisine.  From Tuscon, you can take I-8 directly into San Diego.
• Palm Springs : Palm Springs sits close to Joshua Tree National Park, right off of I-10. It is a great end point to your Texas to California road trip for desert vibes, boutique shopping, relaxing spas and golf. Its relaxing atmosphere is the perfect way to end a long drive, and Palm Springs makes a great jumping off point for many other day trips in the area.
• Los Angeles : Los Angeles, or the City of Angels, is the second largest city in the United States and a great destination for your Texas to California road trip if you love Hollywood, beautiful beaches, fun piers, and a mix of culture. It is also the most convenient ending point when taking Interstate 40 from Texas. There is a ton to see and do in Los Angeles and it surrounding areas, including Santa Monica, the official end of Historic Route 66.
• Santa Monica : If you want to end up on the California coast, there is no better end point to a Texas to California road trip than Santa Monica, the official “end of the road” of Historic Route 66 commemorated with a historical sign and booth along the pier. It is a great way to end your long adventure and take in one of California’s most iconic areas. Walk along the famous pier, hit Muscle Beach for a workout, enjoy the world famous Looff Hippodrome Carousel, or relax with a Pacific Ocean sunset.

Northern California/Central Coast

These options are not along the direct routes from Texas to California but are hugely popular and worth the effort if you can add more days to your road trip to see more of California.

• Carmel: Heading inland to the famous Route 1 along California’s coast is the rugged coastlines of Big Sur stretching from San Simeon to Carmel. It is one of the most sought-after areas for scenic drives that make for phenomenal road trips. Featuring many state parks, sea lions, rocky cliffs, and gorgeous beaches, the Big Sur drive to Carmel is one of the most impressive coastal drives in the world and the perfect way to see more of California after a road trip from Texas.  
• San Francisco : North of Monterey is San Francisco, home to Silicon Valley, the Golden Gate Bridge, the world’s windiest Street (Lombard Street), and Alcatraz (to name a few). San Francisco is another wonderful city to visit in northern California. The city is full of color, culture, and unique experiences, close to the beautiful Point Reys National Seashore, Muir Woods State Park, Sonoma, and Napa wine regions, and the unique streets of Normandy Village in Berkeley, CA.
• Yosemite National Park : Yosemite is located in the central east of California and makes for a wonderful ending point if you want to explore some of California’s most dazzling National Parks, including Death Valley, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park. While this route may be the longest, it’s full of some of the best things to see and do for nature lovers and allows you to explore a bit more of inland California.

How Much Does a Drive From Texas to California Cost?

Is it cheaper to fly or drive from Texas to California? 

The cost depends on multiple factors, and flights fluctuate frequently, but generally speaking, it is cheaper to fly to California from Texas rather than drive. But this would only be an option if you were not looking for the best sites to see from Texas to California and wanted to get out on the open road for an adventure of a lifetime!

A direct drive from east Texas to southern California is around 20 hours and 1,300 miles, which could be done in two days if going direct.

To know how much a Texas to California drive will cost, calculate your car’s gas mileage based on 1,300-1,500 miles. Keep in mind you may not take the most direct route if you want to see the best things from Texas to California.

Also, calculate the cost of accommodations and food based on how long of a drive you want to take.

I recommend at least 5 days for a Texas to California drive to allow plenty of time for stops and overnights. I typically do this road trip in 10 days minimum but could go for much longer, depending on what I want to see (I also hate feeling rushed, and I always have to plan for some remote work days).

For accommodation, if you want to camp along the way, expect to spend $10-$35 a night for a drive-up site for one vehicle. Most motels and 3-star hotels charge around $80-$150 a night.

To save money on accommodation, consider car camping. You can sleep for free in many open lots across the US, including Cracker Barrel, Walmart, Lowes, and Home Depot. Also, at rest stops, visitor centers, and travel centers such as Flying J, Pilot, and Love’s (restrictions on overnight parking vary by cites- always ask first to avoid being towed or ticketed).

If you fly to California to Texas, you may only need an airline ticket, which is cheaper than gas, food, accommodation, and activities along the way, BUT you’ll be missing out on quite a lot.

I encourage you to hit the road and discover the best sites from Texas to California!

The Best Sites to See From Texas to California.

From scenic deserts and mountain landscapes to bustling cities, ghost towns, vintage roadside attractions, delicious diners and some quirky random sites, it’s amazing how much variety there is on a Texas to California drive.

I’ve separated this post into two sections, the Northern Route and the Southern Route, and included a variety of sites to see, from hiking trails and major cites to small towns and national parks with some quick pit stops that are sure to impress!

No matter which route you take, you will enjoy all the adventures and cool experiences waiting for you along a Texas to California road trip!

Northern Route Sites to See 

The Northern route takes you through the iconic “Mother Road” and is the more historical option best for anyone dying to experience what is left of the classic Route 66. Much of this route is on I-40, with many optional fun and quirky Route 66 stops along with a few National and State Parks.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Palo Duro Canyon dubbed the Texas Grand Canyon is the second largest canyon in the country based on length (120 miles long). This unique geological attraction is not too far from Amarillo, Texas. Start at the visitors center for panoramic canyon views, then take the 16 miles scenic drive to the canyon base to discover more of the canyon floor. Hikers can enjoy miles of scenic trails, including the popular Lighthouse trail to the most famous landmark in the park, or get great panoramic views of the canyon along the Triassic Trail. Fees start at $8 for day use and $16 for campsites. Reservations for camping and day use are recommended to ensure availability.

Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Sitting in the panhandle of Texas is the unique Cadillac Ranch art installation, one of the most famous attractions along Route 66. in Texas This attraction was thought up by three artists apart of the San Francisco art group “Ant Farm” and Stanley Marsh as an ode to the American Dream with hopes to baffle the locals. It’s the perfect place for a fabulous Instagram photo op and one of the unique stops along a Texas to California road trip. 

Adrian, Texas (Route 66 Midpoint)

The small town of Adrian is home to the famous midway to Chicago Route 66 sign along with the famous Midpoint Cafe. Have fun checking out all the Route 66 memorabilia and snap a photo at the ‘Welcome to Adrian’ sign, a perfect shot to document your Texas to California road trip. 

Tucumcari, New Mexico

Another iconic Route 66 town, Tucumcari, is known for its vintage neon signs that come alive at night. It is also home to museums, gift shops, and murals dedicated to the Mother Road. Visit the Tucumcari Historical Museum to learn about the History of Route 66 and the town of Tucumcari. Head down Tucumcari Blvd (old Route 66) to see the vintage Blue Swallow Motel with a classic car parked out front. Make sure to stop in at TeePee Curious, a unique gift shop, and look out for the abandoned garages and gas stations with a ton of funky fun murals and Route 66 plaques adorned to the walls. Tucumcari is a great stop along I-40 for any one looking to get their kicks on Route 66! If you are looking to take a longer pit stop, enjoy the nearby Mesalands Community College Dinosaur Museum , or enjoy some outdoor activities or picnic lunch at nearby Ute Lake  or  Conchas Lake  State Parks.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico

Although this stop requires a slight detour from i-40, it is totally worth the effort for anyone who enjoys historical cultures and Native American history. The area is home to over 33,000 acres of preserved lands with petroglyphs, canyons and valleys that were once apart of a thriving community dating back over 11,000 years ago. It only takes a few hours to walk around the preserved homes of the Ancestral Puebloans but there are longer hiking trails and a system of ladders that you can climb to view different levels of the historic city.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Just north of Albuquerque sits the unique and quirky town of  Santa Fe , New Mexico’s capital city and the oldest capital city in the USA. This town oozes with creativity, as seen in over 100 art galleries sprinkled around the city. It is known for its striking Pueblo-style architecture and is the location of America’s oldest public building, The Palace of the Governors, and the oldest church in the US, the San Miguel Chapel. Enjoy the art scene along Canyon road, one of the many art and history museums in the downtown square, and make sure to try some of the delicious southwest fare-The Shed comes highly recommended. If you visit in August, head to the annual Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest and most prestigious intertribal art market in the world, hosted by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts .

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico , is the largest city in the state and is full of culture, historical sites, and delicious cuisine. Boasting multiple museums, loads of shopping, and the Rio Grande Zoo, nature lovers and city buffs will enjoy the magic of Albuquerque. Be sure to stroll around the Old Town’s narrow streets for the best locally made souvenirs and authentic Mexican eateries. If you are driving through Albuquerque in early October, you are in for a treat! The town explodes with color flying high in the sky during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, a hot air balloon festival known for its quirky balloon shapes, including chickens, pigs, bulls, and even Dracula.

Be aware that Central Ave (Historic Route 66) in southeast Albuquerque runs through the International District (locals refer to it as the War Zone ), which has very high crime rates, including car theft and violent crime. If you want to stay overnight, stick to a hotel with secure parking. The airport hotels are known to have fewer car thefts .

Santa Rosa Blue Hole, New Mexico

The  Santa Rosa Blue Hole  in New Mexico is a natural phenomenon- a sink hole filled with spring water creating a swimming hole with a system of underground secret caves. It’s one of the most popular stops along Route 66 and is also a dedicated location to scuba diving training. It’s most famous for its electric blue color and constant water temperate of 61℉. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, or relaxing around the Santa Rosa Blue Hole. If you are traveling in the summer, this place is a must-stop for cooling off and beating the heat, winter is their high season, so you may have it all to your self. Just be aware temperatures in the Santa Rosa area can surpass 100 ℉ in the summer.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Located in northeastern Arizona is the infamous  Petrified Forest National Park . It’s one of the most jaw-dropping places in the United States and one of the best sites along a Texas to California road trip for nature lovers. What was once an ancient forest turned to stone over time and now contains the most significant amount of petrified wood in the world. Hike along the miles of trails and discover fossilized logs and trees with diverse textures and colors. 

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 

No road trip through Arizona would be complete without a stop at Arizona’s most famous natural wonder, the Grand Canyon. One hour from Williams along I-40, its a bit of a detour but one many would agree is a must see. The Grand Canyon is the country’s #1 most visited national park, with over 4.5 million annual visitors. It can easily be reached from Route 66 and is a must-stop along any Texas to California road trip for its expansive vista and dramatic canyon, where there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and relaxing. Formed millions of years ago from erosion of the Colorado River, it spans 277 miles and is 6,000 feet deep at its lowest point. Begin at the visitor’s center to learn the canyon’s history, hike or ride around the rim, or descend into the canyon to discover it firsthand. 

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Another stop, about 30 mins south of I-40, is Lake Havasu City. This area is fantastic for enjoying the Colorado River with water sports or nature in some nearby parks. It is also home to the original 1830s London Bridge. The bridge was purchased, deconstructed, and moved to the US, where it was rebuilt in Lake Havasu City in the 1970s. It connects the mainland to an island in the Colorado River. The downtown area is known for pubs, eateries and unique local boutiques. You can even take a boat tour to spot the many US lighthouse replicas doting the river’s shoreline.

Route 66 Historic towns and sites in Texas, Arizona and California

There are many Route 66 towns and historic sites running through Texas and Arizona all the way to Santa Monica in California. I’ve listed the most popular sites from west to east below but for a more detailed look at all there is to see along Route 66 from Texas to California, check out this post highlighting the best Route 66 stops in Arizona and the best Route 66 towns in northern Texas.

• Cadillac Ranch
• Big Texan Steak Ranch
• Route 66 Historic District
• Wigman Teepees
• Historic Route 66 Museum & Welcome Center
• Mr. D’z Route 66 diner
• Kingman Welcome Sign
• Amboy Crater
• Roy’s Motel & Cafe

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, California

This unique collection of vintage bottles arranged as a maze of glass and steel trees is quite the sight. It is right off of the National Trails Highway (Historic Route 66), just under two hours from Los Angeles in Oro Grand, California. Elmer started turning his collection of vintage bottles into art over 15 years ago. There is a ton to look at however, Elmer recently passed away, and the ranch is no longer open to walk through freely, but you can still enjoy the artistic lawn from the road.

End of the Road Route 66 marker, California

The mile marker finishing Route 66 sits on the Santa Monica pier overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the one of the country’s most popular beaches, Santa Monica Beach. Your Texas to California road trip isn’t complete without a photo at this famous landmark.

Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park  is one of the best natural sites to see on a Texas to California road trip if you have time to head north. This national park is about 2.5 hours north of Barstow and is the hottest place in the USA and the driest in North America. Death Valley is home to many surreal landscapes, from salt flats stretching for miles and towering yellow sand dunes to the colorful mountains of the Instagram-famous Artist’s Pallet. It is truly a land of wonders, and one not to be missed.

Southern Route Stops

The Southern route along Interstate 10 is the more scenic option when driving from Texas to California and passes through various national parks, state parks, and little towns. It’s the best option for those who love exploring the outdoors and appreciate stunning natural scenery and diverse landscapes.

Big Bend National Park, Texas 

Big Bend  is one of the least visited and remote National Parks in the United States, primarily due to its location, but it is undoubtedly the hidden gem of Texas. Ditch the car, set out on foot or by bike, and explore the vast National Park firsthand. Home to the rugged Chisos mountains on the northern end of the Chihuahuan Desert, its a fantastic area to enjoy canyons, diverse wildlife, and the dark night sky.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico 

The well preserved natural wonder of Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a UNESCO Heritage Site for its diverse geological formations and one of the best sites along the southern route if you have some time for a short detour. The park features some of the largest caves worldwide that began to form over 250 million years old by a single drop of water. The best way to explore the caverns is by booking a guided tour, allowing you to learn about the area’s history. Tickets to enter the caves sell out weeks in advance, so make sure to book in advance at Recreation.gov.com.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Another national park worth a stop is the Guadalupe Mountains, located four hours north of Big Bend and two hours east of El Paso. This is a hiking park where outdoor lovers will enjoy the miles of rugged canyon trails and backpacking opportunities. It is only 30 mins south of Carlsbad caverns so it makes a great stop if you are hoping to visit as many National Parks as possible. If you are not into hiking or if the weather isn’t good, skip this one and head to el Paso from Big Bend.

El Paso, Texas

Whether you begin your road trip in  El Paso  or not, it still deserves a stop on any Texas to California road trip. El Paso is on the Rio Grand River and borders Juarez, Mexico. El Paso is blended with a mix of cultures, attractions, and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. It’s one of the most underrated cities in Texas, and home to the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, the Museum of Art, and the Franklin Mountains State Park, a perfect setting for outdoor lovers offering hiking and biking trails, camping, and rock climbing. While in el Paso, don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the Greetings from Mural located in the Substation.

Las Cruces, New Mexico

Las Cruces, New Mexico, lies just north of El Paso. Although its the 2nd largest city in New Mexico, it still has a small town charm. It makes a good overnight stop on your drive to California, where you can enjoy many attractions, including museums and art galleries, and annual festivals. It is only an hour’s drive from White Sands National Park and is home to the US’s largest military facility, the White Sands Missile Range. Explore the museum to learn more about the origins of missile testing and the space program and view over 50 rockets and missiles in the outdoor missile park. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, from the Soledad Canyon recreational area and the Organ Mountains to the many trails perfect for wilderness pack trips and horseback riding.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico 

Sitting in Alamogordo, New Mexico, White Sands National Park is one of the best natural wonders along any Texas to California road trip. Most famous for its vast gypsum deposits and Ice-Age fossilized foot prints, it features giant white sand dunes and miles of hiking trails. Sandboard down the white dunes or walk for miles around the dunes near the Alkali Flat trail. You can even sleep overnight in the National Park with a permit.

Tombstone, Arizona

This historic mining town dubbed the Town Too Tough to Die , is famous for the O.K Corral shootout depicted in the hit film Tombstone and is more like a western amusement park without the rollercoasters- it is a little cheeky, a lot touristy, and one of my favorite quirky towns to stop at on a drive to California from Texas. Tombstone requires a short detour from the main route along I-10 but makes a perfect 1/2 day stop if you want to be transported back to the 1880s when the Wild Wild West was thriving.

Kartchner Caverns State Park, Arizona

An hour outside of Tuscon, only 15 mins south of I-40, are the caverns of Kartchner. These live limestone caves were discovered in the 1970s and began forming over 200,000 years ago. During summer, the Big Room is home to over 1,000 female cave myotis bats and their young. You can camp at the state park and take guided tours of the cave system.

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson, Arizona , is, without a doubt, one of the most underrated cities in the country. Featuring more than 200 years of history, beautiful landscapes, and an eclectic downtown area, Tucson is a fun and exciting stop to make on your Texas to California road trip. Outdoor lovers can enjoy exploring the massive cacti of Saguaro National Park and hiking the foothills of the Catalina Mountains. In contrast, city birds will love exploring historic 4th Avenue’s unique boutiques and having a bite at one of the many cuisine options. 

Borrego Springs, California

Surrounded by the magnificent Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs is a small town community bathed in natural splendor. It is located in the California desert and is home to many hiking trails, dramatic 4×4 roads, and the Borrego Palm Canyon. It is also California’s first dark sky community and has an intriguing art display of over 130 scrap metal sculptures, including horses, dragons and dinosaurs seemingly popping out of nowhere throughout the town.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you are ending your road trip near or around Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park in California will likely be one of your last stops. The unique environment, climate, and vegetation make this National park one of the most impressive in the country, bursting with Joshua trees, cholla cacti, ocotillos, and a wide range of wildlife. From the Interstate, head towards Cottonwood Visitors Center, the southern entrance to the park, and enjoy miles of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, scenic drives, and a chance to camp under the stars. 

Dinosuars of Cabazon, California

If you are a fan of dinosaurs or traveling with children, add  Cabazon  to your itinerary during your Texas to California road trip. This quirky roadside attraction features two life-size dinosaur replicas (T-rex & Apatosaurus) and another 70+ dinosaurs and kid-friendly attractions within the park. Cabazon is great for a quick roadside stop and a unique Texas to California road trip excursion. 

Pioneer Town

Pioneer Town is only 30 mins from Joshua Tree National Park and makes a fun pit stop if western movies spark your interest. This tourist spot is a historic town that came to be when a number of Hollywood investors turned their dreams into reality and built an 1870s western movie set. Over 50 films and tv shows including Annie Oakley, and more recently Ingrid Goes West, have been shot here since the 1940s. The town is open to visitors weekly so every can get a taste of what it was like to live in an authentic western town. Enjoy restaurants, gift shops and plenty of photo ops.

Palm Springs

If you want to explore Joshua Tree National Park or visit the Cabazon Dinosaurs, you will be in the neighborhood of Palm Springs which makes a fantastic ending to your Texas to California Road Tip. There is plenty to see and do within the city of Palm Springs and surrounding towns , including la Quinta, Palm Desert and Cathedral City. Enjoy museums, biking and Giant Marilyn in downtown Palm Springs, the shopping and golf course in La Quinta, and the thriving art scene and outdoor festivals of Cathedral City.

With all the unique roadside attractions, lively cities, historical towns and enormous natural beauty along the route from Texas to California, you’ll want to continue this road trip long after you meet your destination. Road trips can be fantastic money savers and are a great way to see the country at your leisure, so pack up your car with these road trip essentials and have your self an amazing adventure out on the open road.

Shop Travel Gear

Shop all my current obsessions and travel essentials I can’t live without. I only recommend products I’ve actually tried and loved!

The Best Travel Apps

Want To Travel Easier?

Get my Free Guide to the Best Travel Apps straight to your inbox

Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

I want to drive from Houston to California in the most economical manner visiting all of the major sites in California.

Do it! I’m heading to Houston now from California with a lot of stops in between. Car Camping is the most economical option but in California many areas do no want you to sleep in your car so finding camp sites or public lands is the best bet.

Tucson is misspelled several times. Born and raised there I see that a lot. TuCSon.

OH MY GOSH- How embarrassing! Thank you for pointing that out. I re-read the post and found a few more…uugh hate it when that happens. I’ll be heading back to Tucson this fall!

Trying too plan a road trip from Texas to Sequoia National Park in the summer (July). Looking for suggestions on the best places to see on the way .

Exciting-that will be a fun trip, but hot in July! Where are you coming from in Texas? What kind of interests do you have? I’ve driven this route, once along I-40 and once along I-10. Both have a lot to see! There are many other National Parks to see along the way, White Sands, Saguaro, Death Valley are a few and plenty of towns like the R66 towns in Arizona, Flagstaff, Sedona, Santa Fe, Las Vegas, if you stay north or Tombstone, Bisbee, Tucson, Phoenix, Palm Springs, San Diego if you stay south.

Thank you for this guide, we are doing a road trip for the 2024 Great American Eclipse, and it was really helpful planning a route

I hope you got a good show. I saw the eclipse from Charleston a few years back and will never forget how cool it was to witness in real time. What a great road trip to do!

Similar Posts

Top 20 Festive Vermont Towns to Visit this Fall 

50 Fun Summer Things To Do In Rockport, Massachusetts

Where To Stay In Cape Cod: Guide To The Best Towns

How to Plan the Best Day Trip to Martha’s Vineyard

15 Best Shelling Beaches in Florida You Need to Visit

10 Beautiful Beaches to Visit Near Naples, Florida

Sam’s Newsletter

Stay in the loop!

• Animal Encounters
• Car Camping
• Fall Foliage
• Festive Fall
• Latin America
• National Parks
• Packing Guides
• Photography
• Solo Travel
• Spring Escapes
• Travel Resources
• Winter Wonderland
• Contact & FAQ
• Privacy Policy

SeeingSam.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Monthly Newsletter

Sign up for a monthly email with stories from the road, travel tips, freebies and more!

• North Texas
• South Texas
• San Antonio
• Cities And Towns
• Eating And Drinking
• Outdoor Adventures
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Texas Travel 365

The Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary You Should Steal

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365

Are you trying to figure out the perfect Texas road trip for your next United States adventure? Whether you live in Texas and want to see more of your state or want to visit each state in depth, Texas is a place to consider for your next American road trip. This Texas itinerary will give you plenty of ideas on how to spend your time in the largest of the continental U.S. states.

Texas might not be at the top of many people’s lists of the most beautiful or interesting U.S. destinations, but they would be wrong to dismiss the Lone Star State. Texas is perfect for anyone into history, art and culture, natural wonders, or simply having a fun time. There are a ton of national and state parks, locations significant in United States history, and other unique attractions you can only find in Texas.

Begin Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Into Austin

Fly or drive into Austin, the state’s capital, to start your road trip of Texas. Though, if you are driving from a nearby state, feel free to start this Texas road trip at any of the other stops that might be closer to you.

If you plan on flying in, make sure to check Skyscanner ahead of time to find the best airfare. Most likely, you will land at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where there are plenty of rental car options for you to choose from. Pick the car best suited for your needs, then head into the city of Austin.

If you think you need some extra help planning your road trip, there are plenty of apps you can download. Check out our recommendations here !

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Stop 1: Austin

Austin is the capital of Texas and is a city known for its fun, hip atmosphere mixed with a culture devoted to music and art. The city’s slogan is famously “Keep Austin Weird” due to its diverse and eccentric nature. Austin has embedded creativity and art so well into its urban development, that it is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

There are plenty of activities to do here that are bound to excite and leave you craving more. You will need at least one or two nights in Austin to fully embrace it. You will have a blast bar hopping, testing out cool food trucks, exploring expansive parks, and soaking in the vibe of the city.

Things to Do

Admire the state capitol.

Standing in the heart of Austin is Texas’s State Capitol. Built in 1888 out of pink granite, this domed building is even taller than the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. The beautiful building is worth a visit and is free to tour as well.

Visit Some of the Amazing Museums

Austin is full of different types of museums for people of many interests. The Bullock Texas State History Museum hosts exhibits focused on the history of Texas. Found on the University of Austin’s campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is home to thousands of pieces of art from the past centuries. Art and history lovers alike will want to see the Mexic-Arte Museum, which is dedicated to Mexican and Latin American art and culture.

Swim at the Barton Springs Municipal Pool

If you feel like cooling down after a day of exploring the city, try taking a dip at the Barton Springs Municipal Pool. This natural pool is fed by a spring and remains at a cool 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The bright, green water is surrounded by trees creating a calm setting to relax in. The pool is found within Zilker Park and there is a small fee to enter, but it is so worth it to swim is such a pretty location.

Enjoy a Concert or Music Festival

You can’t visit the Live Music Capital of the World without taking time to enjoy some of the live music that can be found throughout the city. You can spend the night on Sixth Street hopping from bar to bar enjoying the live music at each. Or head over to the Moody Theater for the famous Austin City Limits, which has featured a variety of musical artists over the years. If you are in Austin at the right time, you can attend the South By Southwest music festival.

Where to Stay

Affordable:  Days Inn by Wyndham Austin . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  The Carpenter Hotel . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Stop 2: Hamilton Pool

The Hamilton Pool Preserve is just outside of Austin and makes for a great day trip from the city since it is only about a 45-minute drive west. The oasis-like pool is a lake-turned popular swimming hole and features a magnificent 50-foot waterfall. A cool carved-out cave behind the waterfall and circling a large portion of the pool provides a shady area to avoid the sun in between swimming on your visit. Know that there is no lifeguard on duty, so swim at your own risk.

The area also includes hiking trails and picnic tables and is a great place for bird watching. Before you visit, make sure to make an online reservation. Try to time your visit after a rainfall to ensure the waterfall is flowing as it does dry to a trickle at times. Swimming is sometimes no allowed when the bacteria levels of the water are too high.

Stop 3:  San Antonio

From Austin, it is about an hour and a half drive to the next city on your Texas road trip, San Antonio. This city boosts a great mix of historic and natural attractions to fit everyone’s interests. You will not be bored here as you explore famous battlegrounds and intricate caverns.

San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas and was founded in 1718 as a Spanish mission, the evidence of which can still be found around the city. The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park draw in millions of people per year.

Because of San Antonio’s history, the influences of Spanish culture can be seen around every corner. If you want to search it out, check out the Cathedral of San Fernando, the Spanish Governor’s Palace, or La Villita Historic Arts Village. Don’t forget to check out the best photography spots in San Antonio! 

Remember the Alamo

Located almost smack dab in the center of San Antonio, the Alamo is a must-see location for your Texas road trip. The old Alamo Mission was the site of a battle and standoff between the Texans and the Mexican army in 1836. Though the Alamo was eventually taken, the events that transpired there helped to rally the U.S. troops.

The Alamo is a history buff’s paradise and the building, along with the grounds is interesting to visit. It is free to visit if you do a self-guided tour, or you can pay to take a tour with a knowledgeable guide.

Stroll the River Walk

The River Walk is a pedestrian walkway below street level spanning 15 miles along the San Antonio River. The most popular part of the walk is in the city’s downtown and is full of restaurants, bars, shops, and museums. Take a stroll here during your stay to soak up the atmosphere.

Enjoy the Views from the Tower of the Americas

The 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas is found in Hemisfair Park and is a great place to visit if you are not afraid of heights. The tower features a panoramic observation deck, a revolving restaurant, and a 4D theater ride.

Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns

If you are looking for a fun adventure at a natural wonder, drive to the Natural Bridge Caverns just north of the city. These caverns are the largest commercial caverns in Texas and are certainly awe-worthy. Travel 180 feet below ground to enjoy the sight of amazing rock formations.

Relax at the San Pedro Springs Park

San Pedro Springs Park is a beautiful, 46-acre area perfect for those who enjoy time outside. It is said to be the second-oldest remaining park in the United States and is worth a visit. There is a spring-fed swimming pool, playground, and lush gardens, making it the perfect spot for families.

Affordable:  La Hacienda Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Havana . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 4: Big Bend National Park

Now it is time to really get ready for the “road” part of your Texas road trip. This stop is a good six hour drive from San Antonio and is farther from any of the other stops. However, Big Bend National Park is a must-visit place, especially if you love to check off U.S. national parks. Because of the long drive to get there and the size of the park, you may want to stay for one or two nights. Also because of these factors, you are sure to get time to yourself, far from the tourists that can crowd other popular spots.

Big Bend is located on the Texas border with Mexico and is made up of superb desert and mountain landscapes. The park is perfect for camping and hiking, as well as photographing beautiful scenes and wildlife.

Hike the Santa Elena Canyon

The Santa Elena Canyon was carved out by the Rio Grande, creating a beautiful natural rock formation as well as a great hiking area. The trail here is just under two miles round trip and will give you drop-dead gorgeous views.

Search for Ruins

There are a smattering of cool ruins throughout the park. Search out these historic buildings to feel like an anthropologist and snap some photos. Look for the Mariscal Mine, Dorgan House, and an old post office, among others.

Soak in a Hot Spring

If all the hiking has left you with aching muscles, there are some natural hot springs to relax in. You can find a cluster of these springs down by the Rio Grande where a Hot Springs Historic Trail will lead you to each one will also providing nice views of the river.

Take a Trip into Mexico

If you bring your passport, consider taking a day trip into Mexico, which has its own national parks right across the border as well as many cute towns. Cross the border at Boquillas and take a ferry across the Rio Grande.

Affordable:  Terlingua Ranch Lodge . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Affordable:  Riata Inn – Presidio . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Eve’s Garden Bed & Breakfast . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 5: Explore Texas Hill Country

From Big Bend loop back around to find the next stop on your Texas road trip itinerary. Texas Hill Country is found in south-central Texas between Austin and San Antonio. It is named after the rolling hills that form the area’s landscape. You can seven see Blue Bonnets In Texas here!

The area is a paradise for both nature lovers and photographers due to the many state parks and pretty scenic vistas. With so much to do and see in Texas Hill Country, you should plan to stay a couple of nights here.

Drink Wine at the Fall Creek Vineyards

Some people have referred to Texas Hill Country as the Napa Valley of Texas and if that is true, you have to try some wine! Fall Creek Vineyards can be found in the city of Driftwood. With a beautiful property and a tasting hall open seven days a week, this is a great stop for wine lovers.

Discover Fields of Bluebonnet Flowers

Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas and if you drive through Texas Hill Country in the spring it will become apparent why as you pass field after field of the vibrant flowers. If you want to find an exceptionally photogenic bluebonnet field, try to find the Bluebonnet House outside of the town of Marble Falls. This abandoned building is known for the flowers that bloom around it.

Hike to the Top of Enchanted Rock

Head to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to climb the 1,825-foot, pink granite mountain called Enchanted Rock. This mountain provides outstanding views of Texas Hill Country, especially if you reach the summit at sunset.

Kayak on the Guadalupe River

The scenic Guadalupe River State Park is sought after by people who love to spend time on the water. Whether you want to kayak, go tubing, fish, or just swim, the Guadalupe River is a good stop for your road trip in Texas. This state park is also great for hiking and mountain biking.

Stay in Fredericksburg, a cute and centrally located town that will provide the perfect place to stay the night in-between days out exploring the Texas Hill Country. Or stay in either Austin or San Antonio, both a short drive away as well.

Affordable:  Fredericksburg Hill Country Hotel . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Wine Country Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 6: Dinosaur Valley State Park

From Texas Hill Country, drive about three hours north to find the next stop for your Texas road trip. Dinosaur Valley State Park is a small park that allows visitors to take a look into the prehistoric past.

Dinosaur Valley is a classic Texas road trip stop where you can discover preserved dinosaur footprints along the banks of the Paluxy River. There are also scale-model statues of dinosaurs here that make for a great photo-op, perfect for posting on social media. The park also has hiking trails and a playground. The park is free for children twelve and under, all others pay $7.

Just outside of the park, you can find Dinosaur World, which adds to the dinosaur theme of the area. This is a fun museum with interactive exhibits, a playground, and a nature trail that winds among more scale-model dinosaurs. This is the perfect place to spend some time with kids of all ages.

Stay in Glen Rose, a small town right outside of the park, or camp at one of the park’s campgrounds.

Affordable:  Glen Rose Inn and Suites . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Inn On The River . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 7: Dallas

From Dinosaur Valley State Park, it is only about an hour and a half drive northeast to Dallas. This large, modern city, like many cities in Texas, is full of both historic and fun things to look forward to. You have to stop in Dallas or your Texas road trip simply would not be complete.

You will want to spend a couple of days here to see everything. There are so many amazing day trips from Dallas that you can make it as your home base and visit the surrounding area quite easily. You can spend one day here but we suggest two or three days in Dallas to really get a feel.

Dallas is one of the most diverse cities in the United States and is home to a population with many ethnic and religious backgrounds as well as being the home of one of the largest LGBT+ communities. Due to these factors, Dallas is clearly a very modern and welcoming city. The city also houses many Fortune 500 companies, such as American Airlines, AT&T, and ExxonMobil, creating a good economic standing.

Learn About the JFK Assassination at The Sixth Floor Museum

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas in 1963 by Lee Harvey Oswald. Anyone interested in the history of this pivotal event will want to visit the Sixth Floor Museum, which is housed in the former Texas School Book Depository where Oswald had shot from.

At this informative museum, you will be able to learn about everything that lead up to the assassination, look at many photos and videos, learn about conspiracy theories surrounding the shooting, and see the preserved spot where Oswald had fired his gun.

Watch Animals at the Dallas Zoo or Dallas World Aquarium

If you have kids with you on your Texas road trip or just love animals, you may want to visit either the Dallas Zoo or the Dallas World Aquarium. Both locations are extensive and feature a variety of animals, including many endangered ones.

Admire the View from Reunion Tower

The odd-looking Reunion Tower was built in 1978 and is 171 meters tall. At night, it is lit up and is an interesting addition to the Dallas skyline. The top of the tower provides stunning views of the city. There are also two restaurants in the tower.

Check Out Fair Park

Fair Park in Dallas is 277 acres and hosts the Texas State Fair each fall. If you are in taking your Texas road trip during this time, you have to go to the fair! There will be a ton of rides to enjoy and food to devour.

Even if the state fair is not happening when you are in Dallas, Fair Park is still worth a visit. There are many other events and concerts held here throughout the year. You can also take time to be one with nature by walking the paths or check out some of the museums here as well.

Affordable:  Best Western Cityplace Inn . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Canvas Hotel Dallas . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Luxury:   Hotel Crescent Court . Check Rates:  Booking.com

Stop 8: Houston

The next stop on your road trip of Texas is Houston, the largest city in the state and the fourth-largest in the country. You can spend a whole weekend in Houston or only go for a short stop!

To get there from Dallas, it is a three-and-a-half-hour drive south. Houston is another city that can’t be excluded from a Texas itinerary as you can tell by all the interesting and unique things to do there.

Houston is a global and diverse city full of culture and known for its tourist-friendly Museum and Theater Districts. Some of the city’s many nicknames include Space City, Bayou City, and the Culinary Capital of the South. Make sure to try some succulent, Texas BBQ while in the city as well.

Learn About Space Travel at the Space Center Houston

Outer space is something that has fascinated people for most of human history. If you are interested in space travel, NASA, or science, you have to visit one of Houston’s most popular tourist attractions. The Space Center Houston is full of artifacts, interactive displays, cool exhibits, and behind-the-scenes movies that really pull you into the world of NASA. Houston, we do NOT have a problem!

Discover History at the Museum of Natural Science

After learning about things far off in space, it is time to learn about our own planet earth. At the Houston Museum of Natural Science, you will find displays of gems and minerals, complete dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian artifacts, wild animal dioramas, and more.

Relax at Hines Waterwall Park

The focal point and namesake of Hines Waterwall Park is a magnificent 64-foot tall waterfall-like fountain. This landmark begs to be photographed. After taking a selfie for Instagram next to the cascading water, take a seat in the green lawn in front of it for a picnic or just to relax.

Walk Among Butterflies at the Cockrell Butterfly Center

The Cockrell Butterfly Center welcomes you to walk through a beautiful butterfly habitat that is home to hundreds of butterfly species. The simulated rain forest paradise has not only butterflies, but a 50-foot waterfall, tons of tropical plants, and a few other animals and insects as well.

Pretend to be a Cowboy at a Rodeo

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo take place annually in March and if your Texas road trip lines up right, you should make she to drop by the event. This is the largest event of its kind in the world, so if you have ever been interested in attending a rodeo, this is the one for you! Millions of people visit each year.

Affordable:  La Quinta Inn. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Club Quarters Hotel in Houston. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Stop 9: Galveston

Just a few minutes southeast of Houston is the coastal city of Galveston. This fun beach town is found on a long island connected to the mainland by causeways. You can visit here as a day trip from Houston or, if you have time and want to explore more in-depth, you can stay in the small city. Whatever you chose, Galveston is the perfect place to wind down from your Texas road trip.

Galveston is a tourist hub similar to New York City’s Coney Island and is known as the “Playground of the South”. Though there is a historic district, Galveston is not a place people go to visit museums or learn about history, like some Texas cities. Instead, people flock here for the carnival rides and resorts. This city is guaranteed to be a great, fun-in-the-sun time!

Have Fun at the Schlitterbahn Water Park

Whether you like the thrill of zooming down a water slide, floating in a lazy river, or lounging in the sun, head to the Schlitterbahn Water Park for a great day. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

Explore the Historic Pleasure Pier

If you want more rides after the water park, head down to the Pleasure Pier, where you can find a year-round carnival. With roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, yummy junk food, and awesome ocean views, this pier is sure to be a fun location.

Take a Boat Tour of the Harbor to Spot Dolphins

There are many tour companies along the coast of Galveston that will happily take you out into the Gulf of Mexico in order to see dolphins. Some excursions even allow you to swim with the animals. Make sure to book a tour ahead of time to ensure a spot.

Take a Tour of Bishop’s Palace

Bishop’s Palace is not really a palace but was built as a private mansion for a wealthy couple in 1892. It is a now a beautifully crafted, historic landmark. Take a tour of the Victorian building to soak in the history of the place and admire the detailed architecture.

Explore the Moody Gardens

The Moody Gardens are comprised of three modern, glass pyramids. The three buildings each have a different theme which denotes what can be found within them. There is the Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Pyramid. The Moody Gardens are like a mix of a zoo, park, and museum.

Simply Chill at the Beach

If all of your driving and sightseeing has tired you out, one way to relax and end your perfect Texas road trip vacation is to simply chill at one of Galveston’s seven beaches. Throw down a beach tower or snag a chair with an umbrella, then doze to the sound of waves crashing against the shore.

Affordable:  Galveston Beach Hotel. Check Rates:   Booking.com

Mid-Range:  Hotel Galvez and Spa . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Luxury:  Cozy Historic Beach Cottage . Check Rates:   Booking.com

Conclude Your Texas Road Trip By Flying Out Of Houston

From Galveston, head back up to Houston, return your rental car, and get checked in at the airport. If you drove, it is time to embark on your journey home.

Now you know that Texas is not just a flat, bare place with nothing to see or do. This large state is bigger than many European countries and has plenty of attractions to entertain you on a driving tour of your own country. Texas is full of unique and varying landscapes and has much historic significance. A Texas road trip is sure to be a great time for the whole family!

Reader Interactions

January 26, 2022 at 12:03 pm

Hey – love the itinerary!

I know this is up there with the ‘how long is a piece of string’ question, but do you have any thoughts on the minimum time for this?

We’re looking at a road trip itinerary at the moment, so any idea of timings would be great – thanks

February 4, 2022 at 6:48 pm

There is a LOT of driving in some parts so I would say 10-14 days would be ideal but if you have less such as 5-7 i would just cut some things out!!

April 18, 2022 at 3:26 pm

This is a great itinerary- a good starting point for planning. Thank you!

April 25, 2022 at 9:07 pm

June 29, 2022 at 11:35 am

Appreciate this information and hotel suggestions as well. Curious if you think Fort Worth would be worth a side trip?

The Great Texas Road Trip: Your Essential Itinerary

A Texas road trip itinerary offers an unforgettable adventure through a state that never fails to amaze visitors with its unique characteristics. From the vast landscapes to the rich culture, there are plenty of reasons why everyone should embark on a road trip through Texas at least once.

Firstly, Texas boasts an incredible diversity of landscapes, ranging from the rugged deserts of Big Bend National Park to the lush greenery of the Hill Country. The Gulf Coast offers beautiful beaches, while the Panhandle features wide-open plains. This geographical variety ensures there’s something to satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust.

Texas is known for its larger-than-life personality and a deep-rooted sense of pride. The people are famously friendly, and the state’s motto, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” holds true in its hospitality, cuisine, and attractions. From authentic barbecue joints to lively honky-tonk bars, the Texan culture is a blend of southern charm and southwestern flair.

History buffs will revel in Texas’s rich historical legacy. The state played a pivotal role in America’s history, from the Alamo’s iconic stand to its cowboy heritage. Museums, historic sites, and small towns provide insight into the past, making Texas a historian’s dream. Moreover, Texas is home to vibrant cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, each with its unique character and attractions.

The Texan cuisine alone is worth the trip. From mouthwatering barbecue to Tex-Mex delights, the food is a journey in itself. Don’t forget to try a famous Texas breakfast taco, and be sure to explore local food trucks for authentic flavors.

Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary

The sense of freedom and adventure that comes with a road trip through Texas is incomparable. The wide-open highways, stunning sunsets, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace create a memorable experience. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers in spring or attending a rodeo in summer, Texas offers year-round road trip possibilities.

Begin in Dallas, known for its museums, art and food scenes, and the sports teams! Get your cowboy boots at Fort Worth and then visit the Texas Panhandle. Then head south to Austin, the live music capital of the world! See the State Capitol and enjoy kayaking on Lady Bird Lake. Head west to the Hill Country, famed for wineries and enchanting small towns like Fredericksburg.

See the San Antonio Riverwalk and the Alamo, then drive east to Houston and indulge in some space exploration! If you have the time, drive south to Big Bend and enjoy the vistas of West Texas! Plan an epic Texas road trip using our detailed guide below.

Plan the Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary

Dallas – 2 Days

Start your Texas road trip in Dallas. The city is well connected by air and also has rental car companies.

Dallas is a diverse city with plenty of urban attractions including museums, city parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

A must visit attraction is the Sixth Floor Museum in Dealey Plaza in Downtown Dallas.

The Sixth Floor Museum is located inside the Texas School Book Depository and is dedicated to the life and assassination of John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.

Another great museum in Dallas is the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

The Perot Museum has plenty of interactive science exhibits including dinosaur skeletons and is a favorite with kids.

The Nasher Sculpture Center has an impressive collection of modern sculptures.

The beautiful street art in Deep Ellum and Bishops Arts District is a favorite for photo ops in the city.

Take a walk by the Trinity River and admire the view of the impressive Dallas Skyline including the Reunion Tower skyscraper at night.

You can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the top of the Reunion Tower.

More Texas Travel Guides Best Places to Visit in Texas Best Road Trips in Texas Amazing Places to see bluebonnets in Texas

Fort Worth – 1 Day

Wish to experience the wild west on your Texas road trip?

Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards!

The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic area filled with cowboys, honky tonk bars, and delicious barbecue.

Visitors can watch a cattle drive through the streets as well as see a mock shootout.

In addition to shopping for souvenirs, visitors can enjoy rodeos and ride a mechanical bull at the stockyards.

Texas Panhandle – 2 Days

From Dallas, we recommend taking the road north through the Texas Panhandle to Amarillo.

Amarillo is one of the most underrated big cities in the Lone Star State.

Spend some time in Amarillo see the historic district, museums, murals, and restaurants in the city.

Visit the iconic Big Texan Steak Ranch and try their 72 oz steak challenge!

Then see some of the major attractions near Amarillo including the famous Cadillac Ranch.

This section of the Texas road trip will be along historic Route 66.

Cadillac Ranch is an essential stop on any Texas itinerary.

At Cadillac Ranch, you will see 10 Cadillac cars half buried in the ground with their noses sticking up.

It’s a popular location to take fun photos with your family.

Drive to the Palo Duro Canyon State Park from Amarillo on a day trip.

The state park is only an hour away from the city and is home to Palo Duro Canyon, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Texas.

The state park is famous for hiking, camping, mountain biking, and stargazing.

After seeing the Panhandle, make your way south to Central Texas.

Both Austin and the scenic Texas Hill Country are located here and are popular tourist attractions in the state.

Optional: Waco

On your way to Austin, you can visit Waco.

Waco is home to several attractions including the Waco Mammoth National Monument and the Dr. Pepper museum.

Located on the banks of the Brazos River, Waco is also one of the best places to go kayaking in Texas.

Downtown Waco has the ultimate small Town Texas vibe: here you will find Charming cafes, art galleries, boutiques, and pretty murals.

It makes a great stop on the Texas road trip, especially for kids.

Austin – 2 Days

The modern city of Austin is the capital of Texas.

Must-see attractions in the city include the Texas State Capitol building, Barton Springs Municipal pool, Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and Mount Bonnell.

The Texas State Capitol is one of the most beautiful state capitols in America and can be seen on a self guided tour.

Austin is also famous for its live music scene and the diverse culinary options.

The festivals that are hosted here throughout the year include SXSW (South by Southwest), Austin City Limits Festival, and the Pecan Street Festival.

You can easily listen to live music in any of the city’s bars and clubs.

Austin might be famous for its urban attractions but the city is also surrounded by spectacular scenery of the Hill Country and is a heaven for outdoor lovers.

For a relaxed day trip from Austin , visit the famous swimming hole of Hamilton Pool Preserve.

Hamilton Pool is located on the western edge of Austin and is known for its beautiful natural rock pool, sparkling waterfall, and great hiking trails.

During the summers, Hamilton Pool is one of our favorite places to visit to beat the Texas sun.

Optional: Texas Hill Country

If you have more time, then explore the Hill Country from Austin on your Texas road trip.

This region of Central Texas has rolling hills, waterfalls, rivers and lakes.

The Hill Country is most scenic in spring when bluebonnets pop up all over the countryside.

You will find several charming small towns in the Hill Country such as Fredericksburg , Llano, Wimberley, and Marble Falls .

Stroll their charming Main Streets and shop for antiques and local products.

Popular natural attractions in the Texas Hill Country include Enchanted Rock Natural Area, Pedernales Falls State Park, Colorado Bend State Park, Lost Maples, and Highland Lakes.

Enchanted Rock is most beautiful during the springtime when wildflowers are in full bloom.

Float down the San Marcos River, see fall colors on the banks of the Guadalupe, hike to Gorman Falls, see the LBJ Ranch, and admire the dinosaur tracks at Canyon Lake !

Read our post on Best Things to do in the Texas Hill Country for more information.

Make your way south to San Antonio after seeing the Hill Country.

San Antonio – 2 Days

For most people San Antonio is the major attraction of any Texas road trip.

The city is home to two of the most iconic attractions in America – the Alamo and the San Antonio River Walk.

The Alamo is the site where the Texan forces held their ground for 13 days against Mexican troops in 1836.

The Spanish frontier Mission was once an old Church and has several beautiful historic murals inside it – definitely worth checking out!

Today, Alamo is a UNESCO Site and one of the most famous national parks in Texas.

The San Antonio River walk is a fantastic 4-mile linear park that follows the San Antonio River and is filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and beautiful sights.

San Antonio also has many museums for all interests, popular attractions such as the Historic Market Square, as well as amazing culinary scene.

One of the best ways to explore downtown San Antonio is on a Segway!

Natural Bridge Caverns, located about an hour away from the city, is also great to visit.

At Natural Bridge Caverns, you can see the natural marvels inside – spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

Houston – 2 Days

Houston is the largest city in Texas and one of the most famous big cities in America.

It is an essential attraction on your Texas itinerary.

Houston is famous for its museums, including the Museum of Natural Science, which features a dinosaur exhibit and an amazing Butterfly Rainforest.

The Johnson Space Center Houston complex is another popular attraction in the area.

Nasa Space Center features great interactive exhibits about space exploration and also includes IMAX theaters where you can catch 3D movies about space exploration.

Undoubtedly, Space Center Houston is one of the best things to do in Texas with kids !

Houston is also known for the Downtown Aquarium, featuring underwater tunnels that take you over sharks and stingrays.

Optional: Galveston Island

Galveston Island makes a perfect beach day trip from Houston .

Popular attractions on the island include the Historic Pleasure Pier, Galveston Railroad Museum, and Moody Gardens.

Galveston also features great seafood, shops, and the Strand Historic District.

This city is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.

Optional: East Texas

If you love exploring hidden gems, then be sure to visit East Texas on your road trip.

Here you will find charming attractions such as Caddo Lake State Park , the Texan Christmas towns of Marshall and Jefferson, and the Rose Garden of Tyler.

Read our epic guide to the best attractions in East Texas to plan this road trip.

Corpus Christi – 1 Day

You cannot really visit Texas without visiting the Gulf Coast beaches and Texas coastal towns .

Corpus Christi is a great place to start.

The city is known for its beautiful beaches and the boardwalk.

Also Read: Best beaches in Texas to Visit Now

Must-see attractions in Corpus Christi include USS Lexington Museum on the Bay, Texas State Aquarium, and North Beach.

The USS Lexington was an aircraft carrier that was vital during World War Two.

The Texas State Aquarium is another popular Corpus Christi attraction for families with kids, featuring several beautiful underwater exhibits.

North Beach features great nature trails and is a perfect place to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore , both featuring amazing beaches, are located close to Corpus Christi.

Other Texas cities to explore near Corpus Christi include South Padre Island and Port Aransas .

After visiting the coast, drive towards the Big Bend region.

Big Bend National Park – 2 Days

Big Bend National Park is one of our favorite places to road trip in the Lone Star State.

The park is located in the far West Texas area in the Chisos desert.

Big Bend National Park is most popular for its desert landscapes and the nearby mountain range.

Popular things to do in Big Bend National Park include hiking, climbing, horseback riding, scenic drives, kayaking down the Santa Elena Canyon, and observing the desert wildlife.

Santa Elena Canyon of the Rio Grande River is one of the most scenic places in Big Bend.

Big Bend National Park is a dark sky park and offers excellent sky watching opportunities.

During your road trip in Texas, make sure to take a detour to this national park on the US Mexico border – you can experience amazing culture of both countries!

While in the Big Bend region, stop at the charming town of Marathon , stroll the Main Street of Alpine, see the ghost town of Terlingua, and admire the Prada art installation in Marfa.

Optional: El Paso

The frontier city of El Paso is a great addition to any West Texas road trip.

El Paso is located just about 4 hours away from Big Bend National Park.

The city of El Paso is famous for its cultural attractions, ethnic markets, museums, and Spanish missions.

You can spend a day walking through the historical downtown area, explore beautiful murals at San Jacinto Plaza, and admire local artists at the El Paso Museum of Art.

Franklin Mountains State Park, located near downtown El Paso, offers some great hiking opportunities.

Optional: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

If you have the time, visit this amazing National Park in West Texas.

Located near the New Mexico border, Guadalupe Mountains is a must visit for outdoor lovers.

The national park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas at over 8,000 feet.

The park has desert hiking trails, sand dunes, excellent camping, and wildlife viewing.

If you have time, we highly recommend exploring both these places on your Texas road trip.

If you’re looking for the best places to see on your Texas road trip, this guide should give you plenty of ideas!

Whether it’s adventure-seeking or culture that interests you most, we hope that our list will help inspire your itinerary.

From San Antonio and its iconic attractions like the Alamo (UNESCO site) and River Walk; to El Paso with its historical downtown area, Spanish missions, and art installations; there are so many places to explore!

When planning your road trip through the Lone Star State make sure not to miss Big Bend National Park – one of our favorite spots in the American Southwest.

Our Texas road trip itinerary promises a remarkable journey filled with diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, historical depth, vibrant cities, delectable cuisine, and a sense of adventure. Texas’s unique characteristics and cultural richness ensure that everyone should make the Lone Star State their road trip destination at least once in their lifetime.

Love this post? Share it!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

There’s absolutely no better way to explore the Lone Star State than on an epic Texas road trip, and we’ve created this road trip guide to show you some of the best ones around!

From Texas’ largest cities to its open plains, from its laid-back beach towns to its wine country, there is no shortage of variety when it comes to what you can experience in Texas.

Here are the best road trips in Texas–plus a few tips to keep in mind before you go.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Unforgettable Texas Road Trip Ideas

Austin to san antonio loop.

For first-time visitors to Texas and Lone Star State lovers alike, it’s hard to imagine a better short Texas road trip than the route between Austin and San Antonio –especially because it is so customizable!

While Austin and San Antonio are less than 2 hours apart (allegedly–traffic often has other plans), here are just a few things to you can potentially do on the way: float the river in New Braunfels , swim in Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs, shop in San Marcos, and eat some of Texas’ best barbecue in Lockhart.

If you’d like to extend the trip, consider making a triangle between the two cities by adding a stop in Fredericksburg to enjoy some of Texas’ German history, drink local wine, and climb to the top of Enchanted Rock.

Plus, of course, there are the cities themselves: both Austin and San Antonio are home to enough fun things to do to keep you busy for weeks, from the Alamo to the Texas State Capitol and beyond.

Recommended Road Trip Length

Since the driving distances are so short for this road trip, a four or five day trip is enough to give you a nice overview of the area–but the sheer number of things to do nearby means that you could easily triple that time without getting bored!

Small Hill Country Towns + Outdoor Adventures

This Texas road trip also focuses on the general region between and around Austin and San Antonio–also known as the Texas Hill Country –but instead of focusing the trip on the area’s two large cities with a few stops along the way, this one is focused entirely on the countryside.

Starting from either Austin or San Antonio, head out into the Hill Country to explore the official Texas Wine Trail, stop by whimsical Wimberely to experience Jacob’s Well and its colorful downtown, scarf down German food in Fredericksburg , sample barbecue in Lockhart, swim in Dripping Springs, head to the LBJ Ranch, and stop by the positively tiny town of Luckenbach.

Be sure to also mix in plenty of outdoor beauty: Enchanted Rock , Pedernales Falls State Park, Natural Bridge Caverns, and Guadalupe River State Park (one of the most popular spots for floating the river ) are all accessible on this Texas road trip.

A week is long enough to have an incredibly memorable Texas Hill Country trip, though not long enough to see it all!

Texas’ portion of Route 66 is fairly short–you can drive it straight across the panhandle in about 3 hours without stopping–but it definitely makes for a classic Texas road trip!

Along Route 66, by far the biggest city you’ll pass is Amarillo, where you should definitely stop to check out the Historic Route 66 District, the American Quarter Horse Museum, and–for the very, very hungry–the 72 oz. steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch (don’t worry, they have more human-sized portions on offer too).

You’ll definitely want to swing by Cadillac Ranch as well, located just west of Amarillo, for a sight that you just don’t see everyday: 10 Cadillacs with their frontends buried in a field, spray-painted within an inch of their lives. 

Lesser-known Slug Bug Ranch (similar concept as Cadillac Ranch, but with slug bugs) is located on Route 66 as well, but on the eastern side of Amarillo.

Though it’s not technically on Route 66 itself, I also highly recommend swinging south of Amarillo to check out Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the USA and an unforgettable place to visit!

While you can easily drive Texas’ portion of Route 66 in a single day, we recommend spending a night or two in either Amarillo or Canyon to enjoy the nearby sights and some of the hikes in Palo Duro Canyon!

Wide Open Spaces in West Texas

West Texas is not only home to the sprawling, harsh desert landscapes that the Lone Star State is often associated with, it’s also home to both of Texas’ national parks, which can act as the backbone to a phenomenal Texas road trip.

After exploring some of the best things to do in El Paso , head to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for truly majestic landscapes (and depending on time, consider dipping across the border to visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico as well).

From there, head off to Big Bend National Park: don’t miss hiking Santa Elena Canyon or admiring the views from Marshall Drive!

Nearby, you’ll find the lesser-known but still phenomenal cousin of Big Bend National Park: Big Bend Ranch State Park.

Along the way, consider stopping at the ghost town of Terlingua, the artsy town of Marfa (famous for its Prada store that never opens), and the McDonald Observatory, to fully appreciate the inky black night sky of West Texas.

In order to fully appreciate both national parks as well as Big Bend Ranch State Park while still leaving time for additional sightseeing along the way, we recommend taking around a week and a half to enjoy a West Texas road trip.

Dallas Loop Road Trip

For a Texas road trip with a fantastic mix of big cities, great food, charming small towns, and even a bit of nature, consider taking a road trip beginning and ending in Dallas.

Start off your trip by enjoying the best of Dallas and Ft. Worth, including the Arboretum, Reunion Tower, and Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, and the Stockyards in Ft. Worth.

From there, head down to Waco, where you’ll find the insanely popular Magnolia Market at the Silos, the beautiful campus of Baylor, Wooly Mammoth National Monument, and even a Dr. Pepper Museum (Texans are serious about Dr. Pepper).

Be sure to stop along the way for kolaches in West, Texas!

Depending on the time of year and amount of time you have for your road trip, other destinations to mix in include Dublin (the original home of Dr. Pepper and a town with lots of Irish influences), Grapevine (one of the best Christmas destinations in Texas), Ennis (home to some of the best bluebonnet fields in the state during the spring) and Canton (adorable and historic, plus home to one of the best flea markets in Texas ).

A quick 3-day weekend is long enough to hit a few major sights in both Dallas and Ft. Worth and briefly see Waco as well, but for the full experience covering the great small towns near Dallas, 5-7 days would be a better time frame to work with.

Gulf Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking for a beach escape in Texas, you can’t do better than road tripping the southern section of the Gulf Coast.

Starting in Corpus Christi , head down the coast to charming Mustang Island before making your way down to South Padre to enjoy one of Texas’ most beloved beach escapes.

From riding horses on the beach to visiting a sea turtle sanctuary to, of course, simply enjoying the sun and waves, you’ll find plenty to do along the way.

Be sure to stop in Port Isabel to see Texas’ second-smallest state park and climb the 19th-century lighthouse for beautiful views of the town and water, too!

This road trip can be enjoyed over a 3-day weekend, though you’ll probably want to choose between visiting either South Padre or Mustang Island if you’re short on time.

To visit both islands and stop at fun spots like Port Isabel along the way, a week is a good time frame for this road trip in Texas.

Piney Woods Road Trip

Nothing puts the diversity of Texas on display quite as obviously as starting in the enormous metropolitan area of Houston and then driving due north, where very quickly, city will give way to green forest–a far cry from the desert landscapes of West Texas or the endless fields of the Panhandle that Texas is more likely to be associated with.

East Texas, though, is a whole different ball game, from the barbecue (generally served on a bun with sauce, unlike its better-known cousin from Central Texas) to the landscape.

For your Piney Woods road trip, stop by Davy Crockett National Forest to get an idea for what the nature in East Texas has to offer before heading onto towns like Palestine (one of the homes of the Texas State Railroad), Longview, Jefferson , Marshall, and Nacogdoches.

Caddo Lake State Park, with its beautiful bayous and Spanish moss, is also a must-see stop on an East Texas road trip.

Don’t forget to leave a little time for Houston itself: the Houston Space Center alone is worth the trip!

Starting and ending in Houston, you can get a good overview of the Piney Woods area in around a week–but consider extending your Texas road trip a bit to dip down south of Houston to enjoy the beaches of the Gulf Coast a bit, too!

Tricks + Tips for Road Trips in Texas

Don’t underestimate the distance involved in taking a texas road trip..

Fun fact: when you’re in El Paso, you’re closer to San Diego than Houston!

As the second-largest state in the USA, Texas covers a positively enormous amount of land–much of it extremely empty land, especially the further west you go–and therefore taking a road trip in Texas means planning strategically based on where in the state you are.

… and definitely don’t try to cover the whole state in one trip.

Unless you have the time and inclination to drive for thousands of miles, looping around the entirety of Texas’ most famous attractions is not realistic on a single Texas road trip.

The good news is, though, that that means there’s always a reason to come back!

Stopping and Buc-ee’s and Rudy’s are important parts of any road trip in Texas.

Buc-ee’s has a bigger reputation, but Rudy’s has better breakfast tacos–in my opinion, anyway, but there are definitely those who vehemently disagree!

Either way, these iconic Texas institutions deserve to be part of any Texas road trip. 

Rudy’s is a chain of barbecue restaurants with a side of selling gas and running a small general store, and Buc-ee’s is a gigantic gas station/souvenir shop/bakery/snack station with obsessively clean bathrooms and a beaver statue out front–and with a description like that, how can you not want to see it in person?

Texans drive fast, so be prepared!

The highest posted speed limit anywhere in Texas is 85 mph (70, 75, and 80 are more common, though), but on the long stretches of the open road, let’s just say that the speed limit can often, in practice, turn into the speed minimum.

Fill up when you can, especially when headed to rural areas.

Texas isn’t exactly Australian-Outback-levels of deprived of gas stations, but especially if you’re driving through very rural areas and/or on back roads, you won’t want to stress over your gas tank getting too low.

If you’re not in a hurry, opt for the back roads once in a while.

From beautiful farms to surprising small towns, there’s a lot of beauty lurking on Texas’ smaller roads.

Don’t plan a Texas road trip entirely around the big cities.

Texas’ cities are incredible, but many of the charms of road trips in Texas lie far away from their skyscrapers and (notorious) traffic.

Small towns, state parks, and wide-open spaces are some of the best things you can see in the Lone Star State, so be sure to mix them into your Texas road trip itinerary!

5 thoughts on “7 Epic Texas Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

WOW! I lived the first 40 years of my life and now realize I only experienced a tiny bit of the wonders! After reading your articles (and seeing the pictures!) I can’t wait to go back and experience all of it!

Thank you so much, Diane! There is truly an overwhelming amount of things to see in Texas, we may never be done exploring it all!

Excellent presentation, but you should mention the twisted sisters, after TXDOT completes the bridge rework over Mill Creek.

I live in Virginia and I visit Texas every year and I have never before had a plan as well out as these seven trips. Thanks.

Glad to hear it, Fred! Enjoy Texas :-)

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Unique experiences through West Texas and Hill Country

Sponsored by

Jul 14, 2024 • 10 min read

Snail Creek Hat Company in Luckenbach. A Texas road trip can create memories that last a lifetime. Harmon Li for Lonely Planet

A Texas road trip can create memories that last a lifetime. In between Austin and El Paso are hundreds of miles that weave through vast landscapes under that iconic expansive sky. Starting in the “Live Music Capital of the World” this trip will have you wine tasting in the Hill Country , horseback riding on dude ranches and stargazing in the dark skies of West Texas .

Start your ultimate Texas road trip in the heart of the state. Not long ago the capital city was a laid-back college town known for bohemian cowboy music, an easygoing lifestyle, and a spirited counterculture. Now it’s a metropolis, full of tech startups, avant-garde restaurants, and luxury hotels with swanky rooftop cocktail bars.

While the food scene has diversified, barbecue remains king in Central Texas. Arrive early to Franklin Barbecue and you’ll be rewarded with what might be the best brisket in the state. For another take on traditional Texas barbeque, head to Terry Black’s BBQ for beef ribs. Other restaurants are reimagining the art of barbecue too. Loro infuses its barbecue with Asian smokehouse flavors and KG BBQ mixes in Egyptian spices like coriander, sumac and thyme.

To truly embrace the heart of the city, park the car and explore on foot. South Congress is a pedestrian's paradise. Settle into the Hotel San Jose – a garden oasis transformed from a 1930s motor court into a chic boutique retreat – before venturing out. South Congress is also the perfect place to find locally owned Old Austin treasures. Step into Allens Boots or Heritage Boot Co . for authentic Western wear, wander through Parts and Labour for locally crafted art, clothes and jewelry, or add a vintage touch to your wardrobe at Stag Provisions for Men with its curated selection of Americana.

When the sun goes down, stop by Guero's Taco Bar for mole enchiladas and a margarita before heading across the street to Continental Club . The legendary indie rock and blues bar has been at the heart of Austin’s music scene for almost half-a-century. Cap off your night with two-stepping at classic honky-tonks like Donn's Depot , Broken Spoke or The White Horse .

For a natural escape, take a 40-minute journey south of the city to float on the gentle currents of the Guadalupe River. The four- to five-hour float trip meanders through the captivating beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

The drive: Make your way to Fredericksburg heading west on US-290 W. The 80 miles should only take you about an hour and a half.

Fredericksburg

What started out as a small German-influenced town in the heart of the Texas Hill Country is now a wine-lovers destination. With more than 60 wineries, Fredericksburg is the second most popular wine region in the states after Napa Valley. The rolling vineyards along US-290 offer a scenic route that leads directly into the heart of town.

Provided you have a designated driver, you can start wine tasting before even reaching Fredericksburg in the 200-person town of Hye at William Chris Vineyards . As you continue to make your way east to town, stop off at Becker Vineyards , Texas Heritage Vineyard and Innovation Vineyards for a variety of wine styles. For an even more immersive winery experience, stay overnight at cottages on the Messina Hof winery.

Once in town embrace the German heritage of Fredericksburg. Grab a freshly made German-style Kolsch at the Alstad Brewery , a German-style pancake made from scratch at the Old German Bakery and Restaurant and a schnitzel or two at Der Lindenbaum restaurant. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure to burn off all that potato-based food, climb the enormous pink granite dome at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or stroll through the 200 acres of wildflowers at Wildseed Farms.

While in the Hill Country don’t miss a detour to Luckenbach , made famous in a song by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. With nothing more than a post office, a bar and one of the oldest dance halls in the state, this tiny town just outside Fredericksburg offers a glimpse of a bygone era of Texas history. The town is known for impromptu jam sessions where musicians play country, blues and folk music together.

The Drive: Head out on US-290 toward Kerrville. You'll be on this route for a short stretch before making a slight right turn onto TX-16 S. Continue on TX-16 S until you hit Kerrville where you will take TX-173 S. The hour-long drive will lead you through rolling landscapes, winding roads and sprawling Live Oak trees.

As you approach Bandera, known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," the landscape becomes dotted with horse ranches. The town was the last staging area for the great cattle drives of the 1800s and proudly embraces its cowboy heritage. While in town, stroll down Main Street to check out the Western shops, saloons and historic Bandera County Courthouse that line the street. Grab a Chicken Fried Steak at the 100-year-old Old Spanish Trails Restaurant, taste Texas-made liquors at Spirits of Texas and learn about the history of the area at the Frontier Times Museum .

 A stay at the Mayan Dude Ranch is highly recommended to truly embrace the spirt of the Old West. Here you can spend afternoons on horseback and evenings roasting marshmallows around a campfire.

The Drive: Queue up your favorite Texas playlist for this next segment. Take TX-16 north to Kerrville where it meets up with I-10. Take the interstate west for three and a half hours. Just past Fort Stockton, switch to US-67 south towards Alpine for 68 miles, then take TX-118 for the last 77 miles to reach Terlingua.

Terlingua is an historic mining town near the eastern entrance of Big Bend National Park . While the proximity to the park has always been its draw, nowadays visitors are spending as much time in the frontier outpost as they are in the park.

The ghost town consists of a handful of rustic relics of times past including a humble cemetery, the old Chisos Mining Company store and a saloon. At sunset the wide porch of the Terlingua Trading Company turns into the local gathering spot. Here you can grab a beer from the general store and watch the sunset over the far-off Santa Fe de Los Pinos range all while enjoying the easy-going chatter of residents. After the sunset show, swing by the Starlight Theatre for a bite to eat or make your way to the Boathouse to listen to some live music. It’s a perfect spot to unwind before heading back to your room at the Big Bend Holiday Inn .

The Drive: Head north on TX-118 to Alpine. For the best tacos in the Big Bend area, stop at El Gordo’s Grill for a birra taco. It’s the little food truck in the Wright Hardware parking lot near Study Butte. From there continue north to Alpine, then take US-90 West directly to Marfa.

Big Bend National Park

The beauty of Big Bend National Park lies in its versatility. You can make your adventures as vigorous or as relaxed as you like. If you want an all-out multiple-day adventure, hike the Outer Mountain Loop, a 30-mile circuit that makes its way up, down and around the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. 

If you’d rather take a nice leisurely drive with amazing views, head for the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. The thirty-mile drive weaves through the park with easily accessible pull-offs that show off the beauty of the land. Highlights of the route include the Sotol Vista Overlook where you can see the expansive western half of the park, the Mule Ears Viewpoint where you can see the famous Mule Ears Peak and the Santa Elena Canyon which is arguably the most beautiful spot in the entire park.

If you would rather be on the water, book a canoe trip down the Rio Grande. Local tour operators like Wild Adventure Outfitters or Far Flung Outdoor Center offer everything from half-day paddling excursion to immersive multi-day journeys.

Located in the high desert of the Trans-Pecos in far West Texas, Marfa has gained a reputation as one of America's coolest art towns. The town is known in equal parts for its modern art scene and remote desert landscape. Possibly no other place in town encapsulates this more than Ballroom Marfa – a contemporary cultural arts space that promotes the visual, performing and musical arts while fostering community engagement.

Plan on dinner at Jett’s Grill for a taste of nostalgic Old Marfa. Named after James Dean’s character in Giant, the restaurant is located in the historic Hotel Paisano first made famous in the 1950s when  Dean, Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson stayed there during filming of the classic Western saga.

Marfa’s local newspaper doubles as a cafe reflecting the town’s quirky nature. The Sentinel serves as a gathering place for coffee and cocktails complete with Marfa’s signature desert-minimalist interior design. You cannot leave town without grabbing a homemade burrito from Marfa Burrito. 

Book an evening at El Cosmico if you want to live out your childhood dream of sleeping in a teepee. If you are more into mid century modern motels complete with vintage typewriters to peck out your travel memoir, book a room at Thunderbird Marfa .

The Drive: Fort Davis is a short 20-minute jaunt north of Marfa on TX-17.

The Big Bend region holds a distinction for having some of the darkest skies in the continental United States. The wide-open spaces and pristine sky attracts would-be stargazers from all over the world to this slice of Texas to get a glimpse of the Milky Way. The McDonald Observatory atop Mount Locke and Mount Fowlkes is the ideal location for stargazers. The observatory plays host to weekly two-hour star parties where visitors can use high-powered telescopes to glimpse the stars, plants and constellations that make up our night sky.

To make your own star party, go camping at Davis Mountains State Park , spread out a cozy blanket and gaze upwards. If you can, plan your trip around a moonless night when the stars shine at their brightest.

The Drive: The final leg of your road trip will take about three hours. From Fort Davis take TX-17 north until it hits I-10. If you want to jump into a natural pool of refreshing spring-fed water along the way, take a detour to Balmorhea State Park near the intersection of I-10 and TX-17. After that take I-10 west for 190 until you hit El Paso.

El Paso is a lively border city that combines the rugged natural beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert with the colorful charms of the American Southwest and sprinkles in cultural traits of Mexico. Whether you want to explore the 100 miles of trails at the Franklin Mountains , shop for handmade, custom cowboy boots at Rocketbuster Boots or explore the three historic churches that make up the El Paso Mission Trail , Texas’ westernmost city has something for everyone.

Hueco Tanks State Park is a rock climber’s dream. The volcanic rock peppered with hand gripping hollows or ‘ huecos ’ at the park makes it the No. 1 bouldering destination in America. Non-climbers can spend a day at the park learning the history behind the ancient rock art left behind by the various people who used the rock formations as a place of shelter over the centuries.

Refuel after a day spent outdoors with a hearty T-bone steak at Cattleman’s Steakhouse or an overflowing plate of enchiladas at L&J Cafe . End the evening at the Hotel Paso del Norte’s Dome Bar. For more than 100 years, the who’s-who of El Paso have sipped cocktails under the 25-foot Tiffany stained-glass dome. The spot is an ideal location to toast your travel companions to another epic trip in the books.

Sponsored by Travel Texas

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

This story was crafted collaboratively between Travel Texas and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

Brand partner

Determines the concept, provides briefing, research material, and may provide feedback.

Lonely Planet

We provide expertise, firsthand insights, and verify with third-party sources when needed.

Explore related stories

Jun 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in the USA. Here’s how some cities around the country mark the occasion.

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 24, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 24, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Apr 23, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 1, 2024 • 12 min read

Road Trip From Houston To Los Angeles

A road trip from Houston to Los Angeles takes you between two of the biggest, most populated cities in America.

The 1,550-mile road trip from Houston to Los Angeles takes over 23 hours. Route-dependent, you can see Austin, El Paso, Phoenix, Amarillo, Albuquerque and Flagstaff, plus Joshua Tree National Park, Coronado and San Bernardino National Forests and Grand Canyon.

This incredible journey takes you through 4 states and 3 time zones, across deserts, mountain ranges and breathtaking vistas straight out of a movie. Read on to hear more about what awaits on your own Wild West journey to Tinseltown.

How far is Los Angeles from Houston and how long will the road trip take?

This immense journey takes around a full day of non-stop driving to complete, so it should come as no surprise that we recommend breaking it up into more manageable chunks.

Split your journey into at least 4 days to make the time in the car more enjoyable. Or if you have more time to stretch your trip out, 10 days will give you the freedom to make the most of the attractions along the way.

There are two great options to get from Houston to Los Angeles. The Southern Route is more direct, taking you through Austin and Tucson and running close to the US-Mexico border at times. This will take you 23 hours and cover 1,550 miles.

Your other option (the Northern Route) is slightly longer, with the driving time increased to 27 hours to cover nearly 1,800 miles. This route takes you north out of Houston and gets you as far as the iconic Grand Canyon before heading back south towards LA.

Both routes make for a memorable trip with some fantastic places to stop along the way, so deciding which one to take is down to personal preference. Read on to get a flavour of each route to help you make up your mind.

Best road trip route from Houston to Los Angeles

It's hard to choose a favorite out of these two great route options, and if time was on our side we'd combine the two to create an epic and unforgettable trip out of Houston and back again.

If you're looking for a movie-themed drive, you might prefer to follow the Southern Route to catch landscapes and locations made famous on film. Or take the Northern Route if you still have to tick the Grand Canyon off your bucket list.

Whether you're flying into Houston, or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Houston to Los Angeles, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

How to drive from Houston to Los Angeles

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Houston and Los Angeles. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Southern Route

The more direct route to the City of Angels may be a long one, and crosses wild and uninhabited desert landscapes, but it's relatively straightforward.

You begin by setting off on the I-10 West and follow it to the town of Columbus. From here, you'll switch onto Texas State Highway 71 going northwest, which takes you all the way to Austin.

Eventually you'll have the opportunity to join US Route 290, take this west until its completion, just southeast of Segovia, where you'll re-join the I-10.

From here it's just the “small” matter of following the interstate the final 1240 miles to Los Angeles. Along the way, you'll pass Fort Stockton, El Paso, Tucson and Phoenix.

And the stunning Joshua Tree National Park and San Bernardino National Forest are great places to stop and stretch your legs after such an epic drive.

The Northern Route

Although it's even longer than the Southern Route, this trip is also easy to navigate, following major roads for most of its 1,800 miles.

Leave Houston on the I-45, passing Lake Conroe and Sam Houston National Forest before you approach Dallas and Fort Worth. Both of these cities are worth spending time in if you can extend your trip by a day or two.

If you're not stopping in the cities, join Route 287 at Alma. This merges with the I-35 W for a few miles through Fort Worth, but continue on Route 287 when it splits off again towards Avondale.

This road takes you all the way to Amarillo, where you'll join Interstate 40. The I-40 takes you through Albuquerque and Flagstaff, passing Bluewater Lake State Park, Petrified Forest National Park and Coconino National Forest along the way.

Leave the I-40 at Williams to take Route 64 north to the Grand Canyon, then loop back on the same road to rejoin the I-40 and follow it past Mojave National Reserve to Barstow, where you'll join Interstate 15.

The I-15 will take you to the outskirts of Los Angeles, then it's just a case of joining the I-10 to complete your journey in downtown LA.

Best places to stop between Houston and Los Angeles

Splitting this trip into at least 4 days - or longer if you can - will ensure you enjoy every second of the journey, as opposed to it potentially becoming a chore.

While some of the shorter stops can be fitted in on the go, you want to plan for longer stops in locations that not only give you a good break from driving but are the most rewarding places to experience while you're there.

We've listed our top picks for the best places to stay between Houston and Los Angeles that tick all the boxes.

Stay within Austin city limits

Located less than 3 hours from Houston along our Southern Route, this stop may feel a little early. However, Austin is a fantastic city and with its rich history in both the music and film industries, it has some interesting comparisons to our destination of Los Angeles.

It has been used as a location for movies since the 30's, in the heyday of the western, and continues to be today. The prestigious South By Southwest film festival is even held there every March, with film fans and critics travelling from all over the world to experience it.

When it comes to music, especially the blues, Austin is legendary - it's often referred to as “the live music capital of the world”. Greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughn began their legacies here and the world-famous Austin City Limits TV show and festival are held in the southern part of the city.

Be sure to check out 6th street too, famous for its live music bars and venues, where incredible experiences are just waiting to be had.

During your stay in Austin, why not treat yourself to a night at one of its most beautiful hotels? Colton House Hotel is a stunning property with a fabulous outdoor pool that can be used seasonally, so you are in for a treat if you are visiting in summer.

If you are looking for a staycation to unwind after your drive, some rooms feature a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven, and a stovetop. If you'd like to venture out, though, you will be located a short drive from Downtown Austin, dotted with restaurants, bars and shops.

Experience some grande cuisine in El Paso

Texas's westernmost city, El Paso is truly unique. It lies right on the Mexican border (on our Southern Route), separated from the city of Ciudad Juarez only by the Rio Grande river that flows between them.

As you'd expect in such a place, the city is alive with Hispanic culture and its cuisine is known far and wide. In fact, you're almost as likely to bump into a celebrity picking up some food here as you are in Los Angeles, as many are known to make the trip purely for the quality of the food. Yes, it really is that good!

With the culture and the food being the two main selling points of the city, the excellent Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park is a fantastic place to stay that combines the two.

Just a mile from the river and featuring a fabulous restaurant serving American, Mexican and Southwest cuisines, this is the perfect place to experience everything the city is famous for, without even having to leave your hotel. However, in such a fantastic city, we would still highly recommend that you do!

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Ride on to Tucson

Known for its famous Sonoran-style Mexican food and collection of museums and art galleries, Tucson also holds another special attraction for travelers heading to the land of the silver screen. This stop, once again, lies along our Southern Route.

Just west of the city lies Old Tucson Studios & Theme Park. This legendary studio, built in the 30's, was the shooting location for such classics as Rio Bravo, El Dorado and Gunfight At The O.K Corral.

If seeing such a historic movie landmark in person isn't enough to get you excited, this is also the site of the first theme park in America. An amusement park with a wild west style, this is the perfect place to live a piece of history and go wild on your way out west.

While we're on the theme of going wild, why not finish your trip in style, with a stay at the Casino Del Sol Resort Tucson ? A beautiful hotel and casino located just south of Old Tucson and Tucson Mountain Park. This is your chance to let your hair down for a while to the backdrop of the famous mountains seen in countless Westerns throughout the years.

Take in the contrasts of Albuquerque

Keeping to the theme - but this time on the Northern Route - you'll find many filming locations for Breaking Bad in Albuquerque and can even take a tour of them.

To see a more relaxing side of the city, head to Old Town Plaza to explore the picturesque historic quarter. Alternatively, you could take the Sandia Peak Tramway up the mountain which overlooks the city. There's even a fine dining restaurant, 10|3, to enjoy when you reach the top.

After the long drive across the desert, you'll almost certainly need to cool down and relax when you stop in the city, and where better than the luxurious Hotel Chaco known for its spacious rooms and great location ? Once you've taken a dip in the beautiful outdoor pool, enjoy a taste of local wines before heading out to explore the city's historic quarter.

Things to see on a road trip from Houston to Los Angeles

When you picture this road trip, the first thing that springs to mind is probably the beautiful desert landscape you'll be driving through. With over 1,000 miles of it to drive through though, even these spectacular views can start to feel old if you don't break up the drive a bit.

The good news is that there are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way, to keep your long journey interesting throughout.

Southern Route:

• The Gas Station, Bastrop, Texas - A must-see for horror fans, the gas station from the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre has been renovated and turned into a horror museum, complete with fresh BBQ just like in the film (and on-site cabins if you want to treat yourself to a real horror-fest). It's also owned by the original actor to play Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th.
• McKinney Roughs Nature Park - With scenic hiking and cycling trails, as well as a science center where you can learn all about the wildlife of the local area, this is a fabulous stop for all the nature lovers out there.
• The Dinosaur Park - Located just across the road from the nature park, this museum features sculptures of the many species of dinosaurs that once inhabited the area.
• Austin, Texas - The capital and fourth most populous city in the state of Texas.
• Barton Creek Greenbelt - A beautiful 7.25-mile area featuring rivers, pools and cliffs to hike through in the glorious sunshine.
• Fort Stockton - A town centered around the old 1860's fort, featuring a museum and some of the original buildings still intact.
• El Paso, Texas - The 6th most populous city in the state of Texas.
• Las Cruces, New Mexico - The second most populous city in the state of New Mexico.
• White Sands National Park - Rolling white sand dunes located in the world's largest gypsum field. Home to many species of animals and birds, it is the newest addition to the U.S National Parks register, having only been added in December 2019.
• Tucson, Arizona - The second largest city in the state of Arizona and the former capital of the old Arizona territory.
• Saguaro National Park - One of the largest collections of saguaro cactus in the world and home to a variety of rare and unusual species of animal, such as the desert tortoise, the Gila monster and the javelina.
• Phoenix, Arizona - The capital and most populous city in the state of Arizona, as well as the 5th most populous in the entire U.S.
• Colorado River Indian Reservation - Home to four different tribes, experience the cultures of the Chemehuevi, Hopi, Mojave and Navajo.
• Joshua Tree National Park - Encompassing parts of both the Colorado and Mojave deserts, this park contains numerous amazing rock formations, as well as one of the largest collections of Joshua Trees anywhere in the world.

Northern Route:

• Lake Conroe -A beautiful outdoor space just outside Houston.
• Ennis Bluebonnet Trail - Visit in the spring to see roads and fields lined with Texas's favorite Bluebonnets in flower.
• Bluewater Lake State Park - As its name suggests, this state park is centered on a scenic lake, and is a great place for hiking and camping.
• Petrified Forest National Park - Known for its harsh, rocky landscapes and the many fossils it contains, this national park is easily accessed from the Interstate.
• Coconino National Forest - With its stunning red rocks and spectacular landscapes, this is another great place for hiking fans,
• Grand Canyon - A stop that needs no introduction, soak in the views of this impressive natural monument carved out by the Colorado River.

Best time to go on a road trip from Houston to Los Angeles

When you're going between two places that are known for having warm, dry weather most of the year, there isn't really a bad time to take your trip.

That said, for a road trip there may still be some times better than others. Many of the attractions on this trip will be quieter if you avoid peak travel seasons, especially places like the Grand Canyon which attract thousands of visitors from across the globe.

In early March, you'll catch the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo - the largest - which is quite a spectacle, but also means accommodation and roads will be even busier than usual in the city.

Alternatively, in October the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta launches a really unique backdrop to your trip.

With temperatures in some parts of the route soaring to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months, desert drives and national parks are probably better enjoyed in the spring and fall. You'll still have fantastic temperatures and beautiful sunshine but the heat won't be a distraction from the places you're visiting.

You'll also want to be prepared for long drives along quiet stretches of road - make sure to pack plenty of water and fill up with fuel when you get the chance.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

Already have an account? Log in

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK

Texas Rangers Make Intriguing Bullpen Moves Ahead Of Crucial Trip Before All-Star Break

Matthew postins | jul 8, 2024.

• Texas Rangers
• Los Angeles Angels

The Texas Rangers made three moves on Monday before their series opener with the Los Angeles Angels, most notably selecting the contract of reliever Daniel Robert.

The Rangers optioned reliever Grant Anderson to Triple-A Round Rock. To make room for Robert on the 40-man roster, pitcher Antoine Kelly was designated for assignment.

Robert, 29, is looking for his Major League game debut.

The right-hander was a 2017 21st-round pick by the Rangers out of Auburn. He didn’t start pitching professionally until 2019 and has spent the last three seasons with the Express.

Robert is 10-9 with a 3.52 ERA, 231 strikeouts, and 70 walks in 171 innings in his minor league career. He’s pitched in 126 games, all but two of which have been in relief.

He’s having his best season in the minors since 2021. He's 3-1 with a 2.35 ERA in 25 games, with two holds and five saves in six opportunities. He has 40 strikeouts and seven walks and holding batters to a career-low .132 average.

Anderson has been up-and-down with the Rangers this season. He was recalled from Round Rock on July 4, which marked his fourth trip to Arlington this season. In 17 games, he is 0-1 with an 8.53 ERA, 20 strikeouts and eight walks.

This could be the end of the line for Kelly, who joined the Rangers at the 2022 trade deadline from the Milwaukee Brewers. The Rangers sent pitcher Matt Bush to the Brewers for utility man Mark Mathias and Kelly. The hard-throwing left-hander spent a good portion of his time with the Rangers on their Top 30 prospects. The Brewers’ 2019 second-round pick was protected from the Rule 5 Draft last offseason. He is 2-0 in 19 minor-league games this season but has a 9.35 ERA and has struck out 24 and walked 22 in 17 1/3 innings.

He could return to the Rangers’ system if no one claims him off waivers or if the Rangers don’t trade him.  

MATTHEW POSTINS

Matthew Postins is an award-winning sports journalist who covers the Texas Rangers for Fan Nation/SI and also writes about the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies. He also covers the Big 12 for HeartlandCollegeSports.com.

Follow postinspostcard

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Louisiana to Texas drive

Louisiana to texas road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Louisiana to Texas. If you're planning a road trip to Texas, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start at Louisiana drive for about 60 minutes

11:00 am   Bunkie stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:00 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:40 pm   Natchitoches stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:40 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:49 pm   Shreveport stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:49 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Tyler drive for about 1.5 hours

11:29 am   Seagoville (Texas) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:29 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:09 pm   Granbury stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:09 pm drive for about 1 hour

4:24 pm   Eastland stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:24 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

6:56 pm  arrive at Texas

day 2 driving ≈ 6 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Bunkie Natchitoches Shreveport   (20 answers)     R.W. Norton Art Gallery   (2 mentions)     questions about Shreveport:         Best free things to do in Shreveport? Tyler   (4 answers) Seagoville (Texas)     Mesquite Championship Rodeo   (4 mentions) Granbury   (4 answers) Eastland

What are some things to do in Texas?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Texas. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Texas.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Texas to Louisiana drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Louisiana to Texas . Or get a full Louisiana to Texas flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Louisiana well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Louisiana!

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

flattest route

alternate routes

Google driving directions