Planning a road trip from Los Angeles can be tricky if you have never planned one before. We have a fantastic road trip from Los Angeles to Chicago, spanning over 2000 miles and taking 28 days to complete! The road trip has plenty of stops that will break up your driving and help you see fantastic sights, including Las Vegas, Texas, Naperville, and more. We have broken down all the stops below to help you enjoy your road trip.
Stop 1 – Route 66
You will start your journey in LA, where you can explore the sights before starting your drive. You can head to Malibu, spend some time on Rodeo Drive, and see the Hollywood Sign, ticking the main attractions off your list. Universal Studios can also be visited, and we recommend the solar-powered Ferris Wheel at Santa Monica for fun and a photo opportunity.
Stop 2 – Los Angeles to Las Vegas
Break up your drive with a stop at Las Vegas to see what it offers. The drive will take about four hours, and there are plenty of sights to see, from casinos to shows. It’s worth spending a night here to see everything Vegas has to offer.
Stop 3 – Las Vegas to Grand Canyon
You have to make time on your trip for a visit to the Grand Canyon, where you can see one of the world’s natural wonders. You can marvel at its huge size and various colours and shapes. There are so many angles from which to see the Canyon and lots of walks, which means you need to set aside plenty of time to explore the Grand Canyon. Allowing at least two days allows you to get the most out of your Grand Canyon experience.
Stop 4 – Grand Canyon to New Mexico
Your next drive will take two to three hours, bringing you into New Mexico, Albuquerque and Santa Fe. There are plenty of national parks to enjoy, like Petroglyph National Monument or Bandelier National Monument, where you will feel like you have returned to Aztec times. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure, like Meow Wolf, an arts and entertainment company that offers a walk-through experience. Again, a two-night stay allows you to see all New Mexico has to offer.
Stop 5 – New Mexico to Texas
The next part of your journey takes you to the Panhandle of Texas, where you can enjoy plenty of stops and see lots of sights. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the Big Texan Steak Ranch, and the Cadillac Range are some of our favourite stops. You can enjoy three nights here to make the most of your time in Texas, and we recommend driving into the main part of Texas to see even more of what it has to offer.
Stop 6 – Texas to Oklahoma
Travelling 400 miles will take you to Oklahoma, where you can enjoy the Blue Whale of Catoosa. It is a great place to stop for a photo opportunity, and there are plenty of museums you can enjoy. In these museums you will learn more about the history of Route 66. You can spend a night here before continuing with your journey.
Stop 7 – Oklahoma to Chelsea, Oklahoma
Stopping at this quaint town allows you to take a break from driving, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy. An overnight stay is plenty and allows you to continue your journey refreshed.
Stop 8 – Chelsea to Lebanon, Missouri
Lebanon Missouri is just outside the city of Missouri and has some beautiful springs you can enjoy. Bennet Spring State Park and Niangua River Oasis are great places where you can rent a canoe or spend the day relaxing by the water. The Rt. 66 Museum is also worth a visit if you want to learn more about the history of the area.
Stop 9 – Lebanon, Missouri to Cuba, Missouri
The next stop is excellent for lovers of art. The outdoor murals show the local and national history, with fourteen murals each telling a different story. You can enjoy lots of outdoor activities at Meramec State Spring Park, and enjoy wine tours before you hit the road again.
Stop 10 – Missouri to St Louis
St Louis is the largest city in Missouri and there is plenty to do. The Gateway Arch is one of our favourite attractions, along with the St Louis Old Court house. The Soulard Farmers market is a great option for any foot lovers, where you can stock up on snacks and fresh goodies before continuing with your journey.
Stop 11 – St Louis to Springfield, Illinois
Springfield, Illinois, is one of 33 Springfields in America and it has plenty to see. You can enjoy the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum. The State Capitol building is also impressive, and there is plenty of history to soak up just by walking around the city. Enjoy one of the many restaurants and coffee shops when you need a quick break.
Stop 12 – Springfield to Naperville Illinois
Enjoy a lovely riverwalk that takes you along the DuPage River. There are lots of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. The Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is another fantastic stop where you can be at one with nature, enjoying horse riding, kayaking, and everything in between.
Stop 13 – Naperville to Chicago
Finally, your journey ends in Chicago. Where you can explore the windy city, enjoy the parks,and complete the Chicago Riverwalk. Take your time to see what Chicago offers, and make the most of the delicious food you can enjoy.
Start planning your campervan road trip from Los Angeles today
Now that you have your itinerary, it’s time to plan your road trip. You can hire or buy a campervan from Travellers Autobarn to kick-start your journey and have plenty of adventures with your family. See deals on campervan hire in Los Angeles to start your journey.
