From Las Vegas, visit the stunning Zion National Park. Start your 2-week West coast USA itinerary in the Emerald City of Seattle. _gat_gtag_UA_178485166_1. The Inner Lighthouse was built in 1898 and rebuilt in 1907. Its a great stop on your Northern California road trip. San Francisco is very diverse and has something for everyone, whether you are visiting for the first time or a frequent traveler to the city. If you consider yourself to be an outdoor enthusiast, then youll want to try out Washingtons national wonders road trip. : on weekend or exceptionally nice days there is a shuttle that will take you into the National Monument because parking is so limited. This is one of the most visited national parks in the country and has amazing scenery. There is something truly magical about a lighthouse. There is an admission cost to climb the lighthouse, but you can stroll about the ground and watch the Pacific Ocean waves crash below for free! The floodwaters from millions of years ago have left beautiful swirling patterns on the canyon walls and seeing the Canyons just as the sunlight lights them up is a delight. Its historical, beautiful and perfect! While you can totally head east from Bodega Bay to hop onto the 101 North, its much more fun to drive the windy, beautiful Pacific Coast Highway. The setting is very dense and moist, and its so very quiet. In the Grand Canyon National Park, hike all the way down via the Bright Angel Trail or go river rafting in the Colorado River. Some Driving distances and times -. Use the two days to explore attractions such as the Avenue of the Giants, the Fern Canyon hike, the Glass Beach at Fort Bragg, the coastal city of Mendocino, and Point Reyes. Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited in the country and worth a visit on a West Coast roadtrip. Visitors can see the scenic Horseshoe Bend from an observation platform. It has everything I like: the SF iconic bridge (and city), national parks, beaches, caves, light houses, old towns, Yep, the perfect formula for the perfect road trip!! See the movie star homes in Beverly Hills and see the museums. From grazing cows and vineyards to beaches and fishermen. Sport elks and the other wildlife and view the scenic lighthouse in Crescent City. We could write a thousand articles on San Francisco and the bay area so were not going to dig into that right now, but how about whats north of SFO? Then cross over the border into northern California. Visit Hollywood in LA, the Space Needle in Seattle, and gamble in Las Vegas while you road trip the Western USA. See scenic lighthouses along the foggy coast. We left Bodega Bay early and stopped in a tiny little retreat of a town called Jenner, which is right at the mouth of the Russian River. Start at the Lewis and Clark Expedition Site in Fort Clatsop in Astoria. Here the Colorado River forms a beautiful horseshoe-shaped meander. Worlds away from the bustling city, this bucolic adventure includes . Fall in love with sleepy coastal communities and find your inspiration in Hollywood. The Battery Point Lighthouse is the most beautiful one weve visited on the west coast. The hikes will show you stunning views of the Zion Canyon and the Virgin River through different vantage points. Visit Portlands beautiful gardens including the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Lighthouses. If so, youve come to the right place! A Northern California road trip is easy and awesome with a family. With benches along the main trails and the most dense canopy around, walking through Muir Wood National Monument is really relaxing like relaxing in another world. Amy Piper is a travel writer and publisher of Follow the Piper, a blog focusing on luxury travel and food experiences. The current tower replaced the original 1872 wooden building, while the original catwalk links the lighthouse to the shore. If you are looking for a Michigan lighthouse driving tour to do during one day, South Haven, Hol. Parks Highway & Denali Highway. Our 7 to 15 days USA West Coast itinerary will help you explore this part of the country from the stunning Grand Canyon to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Sunrise road and the visitor center are also scenic and have beautiful trails. A good place to start is a trip to Long Beach. Stay at Big Sur village and enjoy the stunning beauty of Big Sur. In Northern California, hike in Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park and drive through the fog-covered Redwood Highway. Monterey to Santa Cruz - 45 miles, 1 hr. Read our guide on Seattle to plan your trip. Its a beautiful property located just up from the beach. Start your visit in Washington Park. Theres no better way to enjoy the scenery and fascinating attractions of Washington than by fueling up the car and embarking on a good ole fashioned road trip. The following is a list of some of the best day trips you can take in Georgia: Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Gold City Corral, Java Cats Cafe, Tugaloo State Park, Dolls Head Trail, Helton Creek Falls, Andersons Sunflower Farm, Splash in the Boro Waterpark, Atlanta Motorsports Park, Tallulah Gorge, and Gibbs Gardens. Every September, theres even a Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival, which celebrates the unique history of this important landmark. This active stratovolcano looks scenic when surrounded by wildflowers filled meadows in the summer. Beautiful! Take behind the scenes movie studio tours and visit Universal or Disney. Then drive along the historic Columbia River Highway. The kids loved having long hallways to wander, we loved the rustic setting overlooking a gnome-filled ravine. Grand Canyon West is not located in Grand Canyon National Park but on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. We had a great home-away-from-home at the Pacific Reef Hotel. See the elephant seals at San Simeon and visit the Lime Kiln State Park. This really is an epic road trip! : this, and any other road trip can be done in reverse and you can add onto or skip over things, but this is how weve tackled this part of the coast and loved it! The tower is open for climbing on concert nights. Rainier, Columbia River Gorge, Yosemite, Big Sur, and Coastal Oregon-Northern California coast, we recommend picking a few of the attractions you most want to visit and dividing your days accordingly for this West Coast road trip 2 weeks. If you have 2 weeks, then you are in for the treat of a lifetime. You can do this awesome Northern California road trip (and a bit of Oregon) quite easily in 9 to 14 days. Understand the history of Seattle and the Klondike Gold Rush at Historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Have fun on the beach, then visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and try the fresh cheeses. I love that you gave suggestions for Redwood Coast. Between the tide pools and lighthouses, youll not be bored for a moment. Watch a concert or Cirque du Soleil show. There is an admission cost to climb the lighthouse, but you can stroll about the ground and watch the Pacific Ocean waves crash below for free! See the Goonies filming locations. The West Coast of the USA comprises the coastal states of California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Along the way, you can make the detour to Death Valley National Park. Its so easy to add stops and skip things, but we think our plan rocks. Its also where. Its set on a head off the beach so you actually have to cross the tide to access it, but its well worth getting your feet wet. And sunny. Then drive down south along Pacific Coast Highway towards Big Sur. Some of the best day trips in Georgia include the Rock Ranch, Red Clay Resort, Ooh La La Lavender Farm, Magnolia Springs State Park, Panther Creek Falls, Tybee Island Beach, Lake Lanier, the East Palisades Hiking Trail, Zipline Canopy Tours throughout the state, and Abernathy Park. The route will take you through many attractions including historic Flagstaff on Route 66, the beautiful red rock landscape of Sedona, and the ghost town of Jerome. You will need to leave on day 2 from San Francisco and reach Los Angeles late in the day to get the time for this side trip but it is totally worth it. Also Read: Best Things to do in Washington State. See the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and take the tour to Alcatraz Island. Totally fun, totally family friendly and a Northern California road trip is great almost any time of year. Use our suggested road trip route to plan an epic West Coast American road trip. Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, and its the northern boundary of the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Feel the trendy vibe in the college town of San Luis Obispo and climb the dunes at Oceano Beach. This entrance is closed during winter and spring. Whether you want to begin in Las Vegas or San Diego and end in San Francisco or Seattle, we can help you plan a memorable and epic road trip. Its beautiful and located on a gorgeous cape. The Cockspur Island Light is truly one of the best. Love Washington? This is the place to visit for secluded beaches, lots of marine wildlife, tide pools, hiking trails on the coast, and waterfalls. The Channel Islands are also popular for diving among the kelp forests and seeing wildlife including seals and sea birds. Or see the highlights of the Pacific Northwest. Enjoy the beach life in Malibu and Ventura and admire the view of Santa Barbara from the clock house tower. Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the natural wonders of the world. Of all the west coast lighthouses we've visited, Pigeon Point stunned us. Download and print our 2023 Tour Registration Form Enjoy unparalleled access to lighthouses, lighthouse cruises, historical & cultural sites and Coast Guard installations, all while enjoying the company of . Feel dwarfed by the 50 feet tall Saguaro cacti and 350 feet tall coastal redwoods. Allotted time: 1 day to do Muir Woods National Monument and explore the area, including the Marin Headlands (part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area). Buy fresh produce at the Farmers Market and take pictures for the gram at the Broad. Check out the visitor center exhibits about the geological formation of the canyon and its natural resources. The lights have no public access, but you can enjoy them from the outside. This is the tallest lighthouse in Washington and the third largest on the West Coast. In Los Angeles, take a movie studio tour or walk along the iconic Hollywood Blvd. The west coast road trip itineraries listed below have routes, trip highlights, and duration of travel ranging from a short weekend trip to 10 days itinerary. Whether or not you become a lighthouse enthusiast, youll enjoy learning so much local history on this lighthouse road trip in Washington. Holland State Parks beach offers the best view of Big Red from across the channel. See the city of San Francisco from the Marin Headlands and enjoy the laid back vibe of Sausalito. Located in Grand Haven, Michigan, Grand Haven South Pier Inner and Outer Lighthouses are fire-engine red, both lit in 1905, and sit on the pier. Its such a diverse place and, Bodega Bay is quaint and beautiful. The lighthouse was re-lit in 1996 with a modern optic shining a steady white light from sunset to sunrise. And amazing! If you have any trip planning questions, let us know in the comments. We enjoyed instant beach access as well a spacious condo unit, complete with rocking chairs to watch the sunset from. Drive on lonely, dirt-caked roads and stumble upon mining ghost towns. Oregon Caves National Monument is of the way between the Oregon Coast and Grants Pass, Oregon, so its on the way to or from Interstate 5. Alaska Highway. Now its time to road trip the Death Valley Scenic Byway to Las Vegas. Big Sur is also home to tall coastal redwood trees and blooms with beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Drive from border to border along the Pacific Coast, then make a beeline for the southwest. Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse 4. It was everything youd hope for from a small town, artsy, hippie, chill establishment. If you can plan only one trip to the West Coast, then use this route. Rainier National Park is a beautiful paradise in the Cascade mountains. Hike the rim trail and drive all the way to Desert View Watchtower. Photograph the Victorian architecture and take a day trip out to Muir Woods. But here are my top picks for those looking to take a family road trip to the . You can see marine life including whales, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, and a variety of tide pool creatures. Mt. This classic road trip has the ultimate Clint Eastwood Western meets Baywatch vibe. Save up to 60% off Sanibel hotels! This road trip is said to be the most scenic in the world for its gorgeous views along the wild coast. Drive along the Lee Vining Canyon Scenic Byway. With benches along the main trails and the most dense canopy around, walking through Muir Wood National Monument is really relaxing like relaxing in another world. Description. Other free things to do include taking a stroll through the historic district and seeing the architecture and famous buildings. Of all of. Simply leave the highway, head for the hills and enjoy the moss covered hillsides. Go from the mountains to the beaches and drive through river gorges. Cambria to Big Sur -75 miles , 1 hr 30. You can park on either side of the Golden Gate Bridge and walk across, or if youre wanting a more complete experience, park on the San Francisco side and do the Bridge, the Welcome Center and head down into Fort Point. The falls are 620 feet tall and are the tallest waterfall in the state. On your way, you will pass via attractions such as the alien landscape of Alabama Hills, the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine, and Bodie, a mining ghost town. For an extra awesome time, combine it with our Mountain National Parks road trip itinerary to get the full experience that Northern California has to offer! Visit the independent bookstore Powell City of Books and tour the underground tunnels. Built in 1903, the South Haven Lighthouse has a black lantern crowning the red cylindrical tower. Welcome to our West Coast road trip planner. Weve done two West Coast road trips since having kids and they were each quite different. Photograph the engineering marvel of Bixby Creek Bridge and see the stunning McWay Falls. Walk along the Las Vegas strip and see the famous casinos including Bellagio, Luxor, Ceasers Palace, the Venetian, etc. Foodies must visit the Anaheim Packing House, a renovated food hall. Big Sable Point Lighthouse is in Ludington, surrounded by Ludington State Park. A 26-foot square steel-framed fog signal building has an octagonal light tower on a hip roof. To see all the attractions, read our Northern California road trip guide. Read our North California road trip itinerary to plan your 2 days in North California. Take a tour of the lighthouse area using your cell phone. Itll get you in the mood to wander through the forests of Northern California for sure! It is one of the essential attractions on a road trip to the West Coast. We had a great hike out around Trinidad Head in search of the lighthouse Um, just read our article about it. Grays Harbor is named after Captain Robert Gray, a Boston fur trader who discovered it in 1792. Eat your way around the egg tarts in Chinatown, Mission-style burritos, and sourdough clam chowder soup at Boudins Bakery. Walk on the beach and enjoy a sunset on the Pacific Ocean during your road trip on the West Coast. Hope to get there some day. Ready to get started? The city is a top cultural destination and has many noteworthy museums including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the La Brea Tar Pits, the Getty Center, Getty Villa, and the Broad. To plan this road trip, follow our suggested route for the 2-week itinerary up to Los Angeles. This region is a delight for nature lovers and a delightful stop on road trip USA West Coast. Explore the scenic towns of Yachats, Florence, and Newport, which is home to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Our friend and trusted travel planner Jenn can help! Alamy. Death Valley is the aridest and hottest place in the country; it is also the lowest. Start your lighthouse road trip in Washington with a stop at Alki Point, which is located on the Alki Peninsula across Elliott Bay from downtown Seattle. We wished we were there for one more night at least. Spot the wildlife in the Grand Canyon including mountain goats and buy Native American arts and crafts at Trading Posts. At the western rim, visitors can walk over the glass panels on the Skywalk and see the Grand Canyon spread out before them. You can visit this beaut in a quick 30-minute ferry ride. This road trip is more American than any road trip could ever be. How to visit: the lighthouse is open to the public and admission is free. And the whole Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a part of the National Parks System, so be sure to get your National Park Passport stamp. This urban park is home to Oregons many attractions including the Oregon Zoo, Portland Childrens Museum, and the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum. Explore the Pacific Northwest on an ultimate road trip through hip cities, scenic drives, and open spaces. itinerary to get the full experience that Northern California has to offer! Then it is time to head down to the coast. Follow SR 395 through Alabama Hills and Mammoth Lakes to Lake Tahoe. See the scenic Valley of Fire State Park then head over to the Grand Canyon in the afternoon. Bob Blodgett Nome-Teller Memorial Highway. : an easy stop on your trek up the coast from Bodega Bay is the Point Arena Lighthouse. In Seattle, drink lots of coffee and visit the original Starbucks at Pike Place Market. Tell us in the comments below wed love to hear from you! Hike in the prehistoric Fern Canyon and explore foggy cities along the Pacific Coast. Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo - 110 miles ,2 hrs. Only historic wooden Oregon lighthouse still intact. As always, we have included recommendations to customize this Western USA Itinerary based on your interests and the number of days you have. Kennebec River Range Lights 5. As you go, youll see lots of small towns and oodles of view points. Photo credit: Pixabay. Read our ultimate West Coast of USA road trip itinerary now. Here are a few things you may not know about Washington. Such an array. From Las Vegas, embark on a week-long southwest road trip to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This is a total no-brainer: either camp at Cave Creek campground or stay at the. We stayed in the historic part of the city, in a beautifully renovated old Victorian Hotel, the Carter House Inn. Located in Californias high desert, Desert Valley is a hostile environment. Also must try are the several renowned restaurants in Los Angeles. See the attractions like Tuolumne Meadows and the panorama at Olmsted Point Overlook. Given its location in the Pacific Northwest, it comes as no surprise that the state of Washington has an abundance of lighthouses. The views from the Paradise area are also equally stunning and you can see the active volcanic peak of Mt Rainier, wildflowers, wildlife, and glaciers. For more great Redwoods National Park ideas with kids, check out this great article! We stayed on the top floor of the six story log cabin and it was magical. After exploring the urban attractions of Los Angeles, head up north towards San Francisco along the coast. This meant though that we got to experience everything: lighthouses and coastlines, hiking in the mountains or rides in Disneyland. After seeing the falls, check out Hood River and other falls including Horsetail Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, etc. Lit in 1903, the light guided boats from Lake Michigan up the Muskegon River. Take the Lake Tahoe Loop Road trip to explore attractions along the lake. The lighthouse is reached by a short hike, most of which is boardwalked. . Sonoma County is beautiful. The actual Redwood National Park is paired up with Redwood State Park and they operate together. See the beautiful mountain views at Hurricane Ridge then tour the Washington State Capitol at Olympia as part of US road trip on West Coast. It has numerous hiking trails along bluffs and campsites right on the beach. From the majestic, snow-capped Cascade Mountains, the bustling and hip town of Seattle, to the forested islands of the Puget Sound, Washington has beauty and variety that should not be missed. Either head for Grand Canyon on your 2nd day in Las Vegas or If you want to make a day trip, see the Grand Canyon from the western rim. Some of these spots include Sleepy Hollow in Blairsville, the Secret Air Force Plant in Dawson Forest, Beach Paradise at Jonesboro, the Abandoned Castle in Menlo, Crypt of Civilization at Oglethorpe University, the Ghost Tunnel beneath Lake Thurmond, Indian Springs State Park, New Manchester Mill Ruins at Sweetwater Creek State Park, and Cloudland Canyon State Park. In southern Oregon, you can also see the giant coastal redwoods along the Oregon Redwoods Trail. Today, you will be visiting one of the best places to see on the West Coast the stunning Multnomah Falls. Now, being parents, we get to share these awesome adventures with our kids! 1 day is good for doing the whole Golden Gate National Recreation Area including the Presidio.. From Los Angeles, drive to Death Valley National Park. Gamble and enjoy the nightlife in Las Vegas. The locals refer to the cherry red lighthouse as Big Red. But this wasnt always so. Explore the Freemont Street in downtown and take a photo with the Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Point Arena Lighthouse is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. In 1936 they installed air-powered foghorns using electricity for air compressors rather than steam. On this particular trip, aka the epic #2TDgoparks2016 road trip, we breezed through the city, only stopping to go potty at 1 Embarcadero (cuz I know where all of the clean public restrooms in SF are) and then parking at the. Other things to see at Death Valley include the Harmony Borax trail, the Mesquite Flats sand dunes, Artists Drive, and the 360-degree panorama at Dantes View. Lose track of time in the utter stillness that surrounds you. The state park, which was named after Captain John Meares first thwarted voyage to the Columbia, is rich in local history. There is also some great beach combing and beautiful tide pools to explore. Beautiful waterfalls, hidden beaches, and coves surround this area. The city is best for foodies and you should sample local doughnuts and ice creams as well as food truck pods in the city. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. This meant though that we got to experience everything: lighthouses and coastlines, hiking in the mountains or rides in Disneyland. Youll experience a totally different version of the same forest. If you made the stop at Muir Woods National Monument, you should still stop here. For us, not stopping wouldve been a crime that our oldest, Oliver, would never have forgiven us of. The Lighthouse Road Trip On The Washington Coast That's Dreamily Beautiful Lighthouses have a fascinating history, and there's something about these structures that inspires nostalgia and creativity. From early May through late October, you can tour the lighthouse. Pro Tip: If you enjoy camping, Holland State Park has two campgrounds and two camper cabins that offer views of the lighthouse. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge and climb down Lombard Street. Bike the famous Flume Trail and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Then visit the purple sand Pfeiffer Beach before checking out scenic landscapes in Garatappa State Park and Andrew Molera State Park. While the lighthouse itself isnt much to look at, the island is peaceful and gorgeous with breathtaking views. Explore attractions such as Yosemite Falls and Tuolumne Meadows before driving back via the same road to Lake Tahoe. Videos featuring 2TravelDads webisodes, TV, promos and more! I know of a lot of people taking this route up for a long drive. Big Sable Point Lighthouse Located at the mouth of the St. Joseph River, on Lake Michigan, the Outer Lighthouse is a round 35-foot white tower plated in cast iron and topped with a black watch room and 10-sided lantern. Plan the ultimate Alaska road trip around Denali, Fairbanks, and Anchorage. Rainier from a different vantage point. The original lighthouse was used during the Civil War, and was topped by a 10-foot oil burning lamp. Experience the citys beach and movie culture. The National Park is very close to Seattle and hence easy to see on a day trip. Lighthouse tower tours are infrequent. Take the iconic photo of Cannon Beach sea-stacks from the state park. Spend the entire time in California, driving down the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to San Diego. See the highlights of Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, etc. : Cafe Aquatica in Jenner was wonderful, offering local coffee and great organic baked good and breakfasts. Self-guided tours are free. Learn more about these fun day trips you can take in Georgia. That will be the next trip. Little Sable Point Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Michigan, and it takes 130 steps to climb to the top. When fog rendered the light warnings useless, the lighthouse keeper used a fish horn to warn sailors, but in 1907 they installed boilers to produce steam and used a locomotive whistle for a louder signal. is that its a bit too chill, a bit past its prime and in need of a bit of an economic rebirth, but its still beautiful. The catwalk has been restored and lit with white twinkle lights. This 12-mile long route has plenty of panoramic coastal views and pullouts to enjoy them. Built in 1854, Cape Flattery Light was Washington Territorys third lighthouse. You can take a self-guided tour throughout the lighthouse and museum in order to learn more about the history of this sacred place and our great state of Georgia. For an extra awesome time, combine it with our. The USA West Coast road trip is an adventure of a lifetime. If we couldve spent a week on the Southern Oregon coast we would have. The Sapelo Island Lighthouse sits right off the tip of Sapelo Island at an impressive 65-feet in height. Its many attractions include watching movie stars shop on Rodeo Drive, seeing their homes in Beverly Hills, taking a movie studio tour including Warner Brothers, Sony, and Paramount. Something else: were including some Southern Oregon stops on our road trip itinerary too because theyre awesome and easy to add. If you have 10 days to road trip the West Coast USA, then you can see many more attractions along the West Coast. Amy resides in Lansing, Michigan, and as a Michigan expert, she is currently writing the Michigan chapter in four anthologies about the Midwest. In Northern California, some of the must-visit attractions include Redwood National and State Parks, Russian River, Avenue of the Giants, Leggett drive-through redwood tree, Napa/Sonoma County, Point Reyes, etc. Take the SR 395 north towards Lake Tahoe. The Washington coast is dotted with stunning lighthouses, and this itinerary will take you to some of the best. Extending from the base of the bluffs on the northeast corner of the island is Marrowstone Point, named by Captain George Vancouver. The lighthouse!! See the Point Sur lighthouse and the elephant seal rookery at San Simeon. Then spend a day enjoying the cultural attractions of Tacoma. The fixed light contains a Fifth-Order Fresnel lens. See the unique Musical Instrument Museum and the Hohokam Native ruins at the Pueblo Grande Archeological Park & Museum. Here are seven of my favorite lighthouses along Michigan's west coast on Lake Michigan. Then drive along SR 395 north towards Yosemite. At the end of the road, continue along the Mt Hood Scenic Byway. Take the scenic Columbia River Highway from Portland to Mt. Among the most famous lighthouses in Washington is Mukilteo Light Station. At the national park visitor centers, you can see exhibits about the volcanic activity, plants, and animals in the National Park. We spent our time walking the beach, strolling around the dunes and just relaxing. On a visit, you can see the exhibits about the formation of the canyon at the visitor center and admire the expansive views of the Grand Canyon from the South Rim Drive. They built the lighthouse keepers home, a two and a half story, hipped-roof house made from wood in 1872. Get a permit and hike to the beautiful Havasupai Falls. The stretch of Oregon Coast between Newport and Astoria is studded with uber-cool towns, nice beaches (when the weather's warm enough) and lots of beautiful vantage points for you to soak up the Pacific Ocean. Visit the South Rim and enter the park through the popular Grand Canyon Village. Drive up to Tunnel View and see the beautiful panorama of El Capitan, Half Dome, and the Bridalveil falls. From here, its easy to pop on and off of I-5. Visitors can look forward to exploring sand dunes, state parks, and plenty of wildlife. 1 day is good for doing the whole, Okay, thats overdoing it, but the Muir Woods are beautiful and very different from either, . Choptank River Lighthouse After exploring the well-preserved lighthouse, admiring the views of the bay from the top and visiting the museum on the grounds, head 27 miles south (approximately 35 minutes) towards the Choptank River. We recommend allowing as much time as possible for this trip so you can explore the coast. In the famous area known as the Bryce amphitheater, you can see a variety of these hoodoo formations. 11 Fabulous Free Things To Do In Venice, Italy, 7 Fascinating Experiences In New Mexicos Hidden-Gem National Monument, 6 Alaska Towns That Make The Last Frontier First In Holiday Cheer, 7 Quaint Michigan Towns Perfect To Visit During Christmas, 8 Best Holiday Experiences In Michigan During Christmas, 6 Fantastic Things To Do In Scenic Sault Ste. Its also where The Birds was filmed. Honor the first pioneers on the California trail at Donner Pass and see the first settlement on the West Coast at Old Town San Diego. The fog signal building and the light tower were adjacent structures until 1936 when the Coast Guard combined the two structures. Then drive down Californias coast to Los Angeles. You may also like our post on Best Places to Visit in the USA. See the cities of Newport and Florence before heading into Northern California. Hike along the Salt Creek trail and see the pupfish and sandboard the Mesquite Flat sand dunes. One of the most popular regions to visit in Mt Rainier National Park is Paradise and Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center. See the oriental architecture in Chinatown and the murals in Balmy Alley. You can see all of these buttes on a scenic drive through Monument Valley. Occasionally they have Bus Days where you can avoid the walk and take the bus. See the Chihuly Garden & Glass and enjoy the exhibits at Pacific Science Center. End your memorable adventure in the Grand Canyon National Park. Visit the lowest and driest place in the continent at Death Valley. Mt. seemed totally unknown to us and like it was completely off the beaten path (which it is), it seems like everybody we talk to about the Caves has been there at some point in their lives. Get your urban fix in San Francisco and end your West Coast trip USA on a high note at the Golden Gate Bridge. Unfortunately it was destroyed during the war, but was rebuilt in 1872. When the U.S. Lighthouse Service built the 1903 tower, they put the original 1870s lighthouse top on the new structure to save money. Youll find this lighthouse on both the State and National Registers for Historic Places. Visit the aquarium and hike in Point Lobos then head for Bixby Creek Bridge. . There are so many little-known destinations in Georgia that seemingly only the locals know about. Drive around the national park and see the famous views of Tunnel View, Valley View, Glacier Point Road, and Olmsted Point Overlook. If you have more time, head to the coast and Cannon Beach. There were kayakers and deer everywhere. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Take This Gorgeous Fall Foliage Road Trip To See Georgia Like Never Before, This Covered Bridge Road Trip In Georgia is Everything Youve Dreamed Of, This Epic Road Trip Leads To 7 Iconic Landmarks In Georgia, This 579-Mile Road Trip Leads To Some Of The Most Scenic Parts Of Georgia, No Matter What Time Of Year It Is, Drive To 6 Incredible Summer Spots Throughout Georgia On This Scenic Weekend Road Trip, This Road Trip To Georgias Most Majestic Castles Is Like Something From A Fairytale, This Dreamy Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Fall Foliage In All Of Georgia, Take This Mini Road Trip To Climb Two Of Georgias Most Beautiful Lighthouses, Theres A BBQ Trail In Georgia And Its Everything Youve Ever Dreamed Of. Next to the Savannah River Entrance, on the N.E. We enjoyed a family-friendly wine reception, cuz you know Sonoma county and all, and felt very welcome. A good ready reckoner. Start at the beautiful seaport city of Astoria. Then comes the highlight a drive through stunning Big Sur. Take a short day trip through scenic Big Sur before heading to Los Angeles on this west coast of USA road trip. Head south to Tacoma and the majestic Browns Point Lighthouse, situated on the eastern side of the entrance to Commencement Bay. Walk up to Benson Bridge and see the iconic falls up close. Located at the Black Rivers mouth, the South Haven South Pierhead lighthouse sits at the south piers west end. Visit the Devils Punchbowl area and see the unique geological formation. What is the most famous lighthouse in Washington? You are going to drive through ever-changing landscapes and explore the diversity of the West Coast. Alaska Road Trip Drive Timetables. This is one lighthouse road trip in South Carolina that you don't want to pass on! 3 months. Are you putting together a Georgia bucket list? Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State. For us, not stopping wouldve been a crime that our oldest, Oliver, would never have forgiven us of. Eat delicious Mexican cuisine and walk along the waterfront Embarcadero. Are there any other unique road trips to take in Washington? The road is extremely scenic and has many attractions including waterfalls. Start your day at Hollywood in Central LA and see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Graumans Chinese Theatre, Kodak Theatre which hosts the Academy Awards, and the Hollywood Museum which has movie props, scripts, and costumes. Additional stops that you could add easily to your itinerary: And heres a helpful infographic you can download to help plan your trip! The Grand Canyon is a majestic natural wonder and you will seldom see anything comparable to its vast scale ever again. In the city, see the best things to do in San Francisco including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, Lombard Street, Palace of Fine Arts, the Exploratorium, California Academy of the Sciences, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and other attractions. The canyons are made of red sandstone and formed due to weathering. Unfortunately it was destroyed during the war, but was rebuilt in 1872. This is the second-largest city in the country and a must-visit while road tripping the West Coast. Get more stories delivered right to your email. In spring and early summer, the cacti will be blooming with beautiful colorful flowers. Rainier. The building is white with a red roof, and the lantern room is black. Initially built of Milwaukee Cream City brick, the 112-feet tall lighthouse sustained damage from Lake Michigans severe weather, so in 1905, they added a protective steel layer. Eureka, California was our home base each night. In 1913, the towers original location was considered unacceptable, and the cast-iron lighthouse was moved 425 feet to the end of the pier. Starting from the north, take a road trip and explore these seven, and you're sure to find others along the way to add to the list. Death Valley is famous for its salt flats at Badwater Basin. This drive is spectacular and has stunning views of the red rock canyon landscape. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for sharing this amazing post. Be careful though, as there are more jackknife turns on this part of the Pacific Coast Highway than in a West Side Story street fight. There are many hiking trails and natural areas along the road including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Garatappa State Park, Lime Kiln State Park, etc. Average Costs of an East Coast Road Trip This breaks down exactly how much you can expect to spend while traversing the East Coast. The address for the Leamington Lighthouse is 57 Leamington Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928. Tour the charming Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Heceta Head Lighthouse. Here are our favorite comprehensive West Coast road trip ideas for the first time US visitors. In 1949, Big Sable Point Lighthouse was the last Great Lakes light to receive electricity. Allotted time: 8 hours, Google Maps will tell you that its less than 6 hrs, but its not, especially if you enjoy at least one nice break in the drive. Then visit San Francisco and Los Angeles to complete your road trip in USA west coast. See the lighthouses at Cape Arago, Cape Blanco, and Pelican Bay. Anaheim, located in Orange County, is home to Californias theme parks. Take a stroll at the scenic Fort Defiance Park in Tacoma before heading to Seattle. See the beautiful views along the waterfront. Hike along popular short trails such as the Emerald Pools, the Riverside Walk, and the Weeping Rock. While this road trip is based only in California, it is one of the best west coast road trips. The USA west coast tour itinerary is an educational experience and perfect for a family summer vacation with kids. Take a day trip to Columbia River Gorge via the Historic Columbia River Highway. Return to Portland for the next part of the trip. End: Delta Junction, Alaska. If you have time see the beautiful Antelope Canyons in Page. Visit the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and enjoy the stunning views. It was everything youd hope for from a small town, artsy, hippie, chill establishment. Along the Georgia coast, there are some seriously stunning lighthouses that are still standing and filled with incredible history. Follow Highway 101 to Olympic National Park in Washington. Start your visit in the Yosemite Village and see the valley. This road trip has plenty of hidden gems and underrated attractions. The initial impression of Crescent City is that its a bit too chill, a bit past its prime and in need of a bit of an economic rebirth, but its still beautiful. The city is pretty huge and most of the landmark tourist attractions arent concentrated in one place but you can easily get cabs and rideshares to get around the city. After seeing Seattle, drive to Mt. Such an array. : a morning stop gives the best photo ops in front of the, on the SF side, but an afternoon stop will be better from the Marin side (just thinking about sun/contrast), : 2 hours is plenty for exploring, photos and learning. This photogenic lighthouse also has the distinction of being the strongest light on the Oregon Coast. Then make your way south to the hip and trendy city of Portland. From grazing cows and vineyards to beaches and fishermen. On this particular trip, aka the epic #2TDgoparks2016 road trip, we breezed through the city, only stopping to go potty at 1 Embarcadero (cuz I know where all of the clean public restrooms in SF are) and then parking at the Golden Gate Bridge. Tip: an easy stop on your trek up the coast from Bodega Bay is the Point Arena Lighthouse. The southern coast also has lots of breweries and is a great place to drink craft beer. As we mentioned before, spend 2 to 3 days on the course from Portland to San Francisco. Cave tours are limited to being Park Ranger led, but they are awesome and youll get a full serving of history and geology. Youll also find the North Head Lighthouse (pictured) here, which was constructed in 1897 after mariners realized the Cape Disappointment Light couldnt be seen from the ships approaching from the north. Youll also find a scannable barcode that takes you to the lighthouse website too. The first was when Oliver wasnt even a year old. Begin your West Coast driving trip in Las Vegas. Monument Valley has a fascinating landscape of red sandstone buttes that reach up towards the sky. The rooms are HUGE (great for family travel) and the staff is so friendly. The original lighthouse was used during the Civil War, and was topped by a 10-foot oil burning lamp. Are you looking for the best US west coast road trip itinerary to explore the most beautiful places along the Pacific Coast? But after reading this, I can see there are so many places we are yet to cover. Camp in Monument Valley to see its dark sky and the silhouette of the buttes at night. Enjoy surfing on the crescent-shaped Sand Dollar Beach. Then head down to Ecola State Park and Cannon Beach. In summer, the lighthouse is open daily from noon to 4:00 pm. Walk or bike across Golden Gate Bridge and see the attractions in the Presidio of San Francisco including Crissy Fields, Fort Point, Walt Disney Museum, and the Palace of Fine Arts. Cave tours are limited to being Park Ranger led, but they are awesome and youll get a full serving of history and geology. In fact, theres an itinerary for just about every kind of explorer. . We have linked this guide to our in-depth articles covering the region Click on the names of cities and natural attractions to read more about them. . Loved it! West Coast USA road trip is a grand adventure. Big Sur to Monterey - 30 miles -45 mins. What else can I do along the coast in Washington? It is located between Florence and Yachats, Oregon, and can be easily seen on a Pacific Coast Highway 101 road trip. We had a great home-away-from-home at the. Discover millions of years old landscapes and rock formations. Visit the Chinatown-International District and enjoy shopping for knick-knacks and souvenirs. In fact, you can climb all 178 steps to reach the top of the iconic, Although it's the smallest lighthouse in Georgia, it still packs a pretty spectacular punch along this road trip. Other than the Las Vegas strip attractions, you can also check out hidden gems in Vegas including the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, Discovery Childrens Museum. Another popular attraction in Page is Horseshoe Bend overlook. For those who are mesmerized by waterfalls, the ultimate waterfall road trip in Washington is sure to be a memorable one. .gowandering.com. Stretching between Shelter Cove to the south and the Mattole River to the northin both Mendocino and Humboldt countiesthe Lost Coast is a wild land of forests, fog, waves, and sand. At one time, this location was considered remote, and the point and the hills were covered with timber. The falls cascade from the basalt cliffs in two tiers. and the Beach Front Park, which is great for its HUGE playground and wonderful walking paths along the bay all the way to the lighthouse. If you have just 7 days, you cannot see the entire West Coast. What are some fun things to do in Georgia? We first encountered it on a road trip the previous winter. See the Walk of Stars and the Oriental Theatre in Hollywood. The Willamette River runs through this city and Tom McCall Waterfront Park is located along the river. For more West Coast Road Trip Itinerary 7 days ideas, see our post on Best Road Trips to take along the West Coast. In Silver Lake State Park, the 1874 tower stands 107-feet tall, lit with the original Third-Order Fresnel lens. See? West Point Lighthouse (Discovery Park Lighthouse) Address: Discovery Park, 3801 Discovery Park Blvd., Seattle, WA. After seeing Los Angeles and Anaheim, make the trip towards the southwest to the Sin City of Las Vegas. In Las Vegas, see Lake Mead and Hoover Dam plus the areas outdoor attractions. Here in Georgia, were grateful for the sheer abundance of day trip opportunities found throughout the state. Enjoy delicious seafood at Fishermans Wharf and the dim sum in Chinatown. This lighthouse is an iconic part of Port Townsend, and youll get some great photo ops here. End your West Coast trip in San Francisco. Tip: Cafe Aquatica in Jenner was wonderful, offering local coffee and great organic baked good and breakfasts. You can also whale watch from the shores. Notice the signs with the cell phone tour and stop numbers. Road trip the 21 miles long Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive and see the canyon from the lookout points. Architecture lovers should visit Frank Lloyd Wrights Taliesin West in nearby Scottsdale. Not only are these structures significant in their history, but they also continue to guide navigation today. Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places to visit on the West Coast. Distance: 1,390 miles. Eat the oysters at Tomales Bay and see the Birds filming locale in Bodega Bay. Categories California, National Parks, NorCal, Oregon, Pacific Northwest, Southwestern US, United States, Hiking Hetch Hetchy: the unknown Yosemite National Park, An ideal PNW hotel: the Majestic Inn of Anacortes. Hood and explore the attractions along the 75-mile long route. As youre wandering through the woods, you genuinely are waiting to get hit by an Ewok spear or a speeder. See the beautiful view from Ecola State Park and visit the Tillamook Creamery. This particular part of Seattle feels more like a small East Coast beach town than anything in Washington (and its amazing). Christopher Aquino / Shutterstock 1. See sea lions or take a whale-watching cruise. Seward Highway. Sunbathe in Malibu and take in the beauty of Big Surs rocky coastline. Oregon Caves National Monument is great for kids and adults alike. The Cape Disappointment Light, dating back to 1856, is located near the mouth of the Columbia River. Then explore the states desert region of Joshua Tree and Death Valley. The coast of Washington offers a treasure trove of breathtaking scenery, unique cultural exhibits, noteworthy restaurants, and natural charm. There are many things to do on Oregons central coast. As we mentioned, this is a park of extreme landscapes and weather. What was once the lighthouse keepers living quarters is now a gift shop. Drive on lonely, dirt-caked roads and stumble upon mining ghost towns. There is also some great beach combing and beautiful tide pools to explore. Have you ever driven through the trunk of a huge tree? Take a hike through Forest Park and discover the Witchs Castle! This red sand desert region located in Arizona is probably one of the most photographed spots in the country. If the roads are open, drive to Sunrise Visitor Center to see Mt. Try out the citys famous attractions and tour the Seattle Underground. The lake is located on the Nevada California border and is stunning blue in the summer. Visit the beautiful Multnomah Falls and admire the view from the Vista House Museum. Its basically the point of doing a Northern California road trip. Visit the local Farmers Market, hike in Forest Park, and walk across the beautiful historic St. Johns Bridge. is great for kids and adults alike. Whether you crave time in the mountains or a beach day, stunning natural landscapes or bustling city life, theres a little something for everyone to enjoy in the Peach State. You can also see the valley on a guided tour given by the park rangers if you have less time. Visit the Griffith Observatory and see gorgeous views of the city from above. During the rest of the year, visit the Paradise area and the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center. You can do this awesome Northern California road trip (and a bit of Oregon) quite easily in 9 to 14 days. In 1956, the Coast Guard changed the color to bright red to meet the navigation aid requirements. These picks are beautiful, easy to visit and make for picturesque road trip adventures, from the Florida Keys to the Oregon Coast. Spend some time in Monterey at the Cannery Row. Perfect family travel hotel! Visit Museum Row on Miracle Mile and admire the art at LACMA and fossils at La Brea Tra Pits. If you are driving, we recommend devoting 2 to 3 days to this stretch which is filled with redwoods, beautiful lighthouses, charming coastal cities, and more. Its situated at the edge of the sand dunes just before they meet the Pacific Ocean hence the name. My family fell in love with almost every destination we visited during our epic west coast road trip. Do you agree that its one of the best road trips in Georgia? We were lured out of the car on a blustery and cold winter afternoon by the outline of the tallest lighthouse in America, a solitary sentinel against the bright sky. You will begin near the northern border in Canada and explore the most vibrant city of the Pacific Northwest. We so very much enjoyed the citys parks and harbor, it wouldve been nice to just relax here but we didnt. You can find the entire road trip map here. End your road trip in the sunny city of San Diego. Lighthouses have a fascinating history, and theres something about these structures that inspires nostalgia and creativity. Grand Havens elevated walkway allowed access to the lands lights, even when ice and snow buried the pier. Continue the drive down Highway 101 through Southern Oregon. This classic road trip has the ultimate Clint Eastwood Western meets Baywatch vibe. How many miles is it to Anchorage, Alaska from: 5 Best Alaska Road Trip Routes. At 3,288 miles, Michigan has the longest fresh-water coastline in the United States. The route has 157 discovery points, around 1,000 attractions, and over 2,500 activities. Take a day trip to Napa or Sonoma wine counties and go wine tasting, see the geyser in Calistoga, check out the Bay area attractions in neighboring San Jose and Palo Alto, or see the redwood trees at Muir Woods in case you missed them further up the coast. Another awesome option is to follow Oregon Highway 101, California Highway 101, and Highway 1 down the Pacific Coast. Your next destination is Portland. It is the lowest, driest, and hottest place in the country. Ultimate Washington Road Trip Itinerary: Best of the Evergreen State! See one of a kind geological landforms and eat plenty of seafood. At the end of a sandy point in Puget Sound, you will find the 23-foot tall West Point Lighthouse. The drive through Big Sur is one of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Spend a day cruising on Lake Powell and see the Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Take a photogenic view of the Portland skyline with Mount Hood in the background from Pittock Mansion. Squirrel Point Light 6. It was nice to find a park there too that the kids could run around and expel some energy. The lighthouse is open seasonally from late May until late September for those who want to explore the inside and take in the stunning lake views from the top. Pro Tip: While they are working on the pier, you can still access the boardwalk and see the lighthouses from Grand Haven State Park. This year we got to do an ideal trip with both kids! If this is your multiple visit to the city, then discover hidden attractions such as the Grateful Dead house in Haight Ashbury neighborhood, the 16th Avenue tiled steps, and Mission Dolores Park in Mission District. Snap a photo with the movie stars on the sidewalk and shop on Rodeo Drive. The best time to drive this road is from summer to fall; the rest of the year you may encounter snow and/or attractions may be closed. This is a must-stop for anybody thats a Star Wars fan. Visit one of a kind attractions such as Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley. Pro Tip: You can park at the beach or by Margaret Drake Elliot Park. The trees are huge and mood is very calm. Not only was the building we stayed in charming, but the other parts of the hotel were incredible: a Victorian mansion and two smaller cottages. You can also visit Universal Studios to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We drove through the hills surrounding the town plotting out where we could live. You will be treated to stunning coastal views, rock formations, sandy beaches, waterfalls, marine life, coastal towns, whale watching, lots of history, and fresh seafood on this West Coast USA itinerary 10 days. We really enjoyed the hike through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove in Redwood National Park and were wowed around every turn. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. From the urban skyline of San Francisco, the scenery changes quite a bit even before you reach Big Sur. They replaced it with todays North Pier Inner and Outer Lights. The trees are huge and mood is very calm. Not the best road trip ever, but thats life. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day Summer Hours: 10 am to 4:30 pm The last Tower Tour is at 4:15 pm The grounds, Museum and Gift Store are open until 4:30 pm. 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