2 Week Road Trip USA: Your Guide to the Best Cross-Country Journey
Why Take a 2 Week Road Trip USA?
Dreaming of the open road, endless skies, and discovering the best places to visit in the USA? A 2 week road trip USA is the perfect way to see the country’s most famous landmarks, national parks, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a cross-country road trip offers a unique way to experience the diversity of the United States. From the bustling streets of New York City to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, this journey is packed with adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Planning Your 2 Week Road Trip USA
Best Time to Go
The best time for a 2 week road trip across the USA depends on your route and what you want to see. Generally, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery. Summer is popular but can be hot and busy, especially in national parks and major cities.
Choosing Your Route
There are many classic road trip routes in the USA. For a 2 week adventure, consider these options:
- East Coast to West Coast: New York to Los Angeles or San Francisco
- Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica
- Pacific Coast Highway: Seattle to San Diego
- Southern Route: Miami to San Diego
For this guide, we’ll focus on a cross-country route from New York City to Las Vegas, hitting major cities, national parks, and hidden gems along the way.
Packing Essentials
Packing smart is key for a successful road trip. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Valid driver’s license and car documents
- GPS or smartphone with maps
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks and cooler
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- First aid kit
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Chargers and power banks
- Travel pillow and blanket
- National park pass (if visiting parks)
- Travel insurance
For more tips, check out Travel.State.Gov’s road trip safety guide.
Sample 2 Week Road Trip USA Itinerary
This sample itinerary covers some of the best places to visit in the USA, mixing big cities, small towns, and natural wonders.
Day 1-2: New York City, NY
Highlights:
- Times Square
- Central Park
- Statue of Liberty
- Broadway show
Tips: Start your journey in the city that never sleeps. Spend two days exploring iconic sights, enjoying world-class food, and soaking up the energy of NYC.
Day 3: Philadelphia, PA
Highlights:
- Liberty Bell
- Independence Hall
- Reading Terminal Market
Tips: Philadelphia is just a short drive from New York. Dive into American history and try a famous Philly cheesesteak.
Day 4: Washington, D.C.
Highlights:
- National Mall
- Smithsonian Museums (many are free!)
- Lincoln Memorial
Tips: Park your car and explore the city on foot or by bike. Don’t miss the monuments lit up at night.
Day 5-6: Blue Ridge Parkway, VA/NC
Highlights:
- Scenic mountain drives
- Hiking trails
- Blue Ridge Music Center
Tips: Take your time on this beautiful stretch of road. Stop at overlooks, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy the slower pace.
Day 7: Nashville, TN
Highlights:
- Country Music Hall of Fame
- Broadway’s live music bars
- Hot chicken
Tips: Nashville is the heart of country music. Catch a live show and sample local Southern cuisine.
Day 8: Memphis, TN
Highlights:
- Graceland (Elvis Presley’s home)
- Beale Street
- National Civil Rights Museum
Tips: Memphis is rich in music and history. Don’t leave without trying some Memphis barbecue.
Day 9: Little Rock, AR
Highlights:
- Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
- River Market District
Tips: Little Rock is a great place to stretch your legs and learn about civil rights history.
Day 10: Oklahoma City, OK
Highlights:
- Oklahoma City National Memorial
- Bricktown entertainment district
Tips: Enjoy the city’s Western heritage and friendly vibe.
Day 11: Amarillo, TX
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch
- Route 66 Historic District
Tips: Amarillo is a classic stop on Route 66. Don’t miss the quirky roadside art.
Day 12: Santa Fe, NM
Highlights:
- Historic Plaza
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
- Southwestern cuisine
Tips: Santa Fe’s adobe architecture and art scene make it a unique stop.
Day 13: Grand Canyon, AZ
Highlights:
- South Rim viewpoints
- Hiking trails
- Sunrise or sunset views
Tips: The Grand Canyon is a must-see on any USA road trip. Book accommodations early, especially in peak season.
Day 14: Las Vegas, NV
Highlights:
- The Strip
- Bellagio Fountains
- Fremont Street
Tips: Celebrate the end of your journey in Las Vegas. Enjoy the lights, shows, and maybe try your luck at the casinos.
Top Tips for a Successful 2 Week Road Trip USA
Plan your route but stay flexible. Some of the best moments happen when you take a detour.
- Book key accommodations in advance, especially in popular cities and national parks.
- Download offline maps in case you lose cell service.
- Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch and stay alert.
- Try local food in each region for a true taste of America.
- Respect speed limits and local laws. Each state can have different rules.
- Pack light, but don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and a hat.
Budgeting for Your Road Trip
A 2 week road trip USA can fit many budgets. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical costs:
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-Range Option | Notes |
| Car Rental | $400 | $800 | Book early for best rates |
| Gas | $300 | $400 | Varies by route and car type |
| Accommodation | $700 | $1,400 | Motels, hotels, or Airbnb |
| Food | $350 | $700 | Groceries + restaurants |
| Attractions | $200 | $400 | Museums, parks, tours |
| Miscellaneous | $150 | $300 | Souvenirs, tolls, etc. |
| Total | $2,100 | $4,000 | For 2 people |
Money-saving tips:
- Use hotel points or rewards
- Camp in national parks
- Cook some meals yourself
- Look for free attractions
Must-See Sights and Hidden Gems
While the big cities and national parks are must-sees, don’t miss these lesser-known stops:
- Shenandoah National Park, VA: Beautiful hikes and Skyline Drive views
- Hot Springs National Park, AR: Relax in natural hot springs
- Petrified Forest National Park, AZ: Unique landscapes and ancient trees
- Winslow, AZ: Stand on the corner made famous by the Eagles song
- Route 66 roadside attractions: From giant statues to quirky diners
For more ideas, check out National Park Service’s Find a Park tool.
FAQs About a 2 Week Road Trip USA
Q: How many miles can I cover in 2 weeks?
A: Most travelers cover 2,500 to 3,500 miles, depending on stops and detours.
Q: Is it better to rent a car or use my own?
A: Renting is great for one-way trips or if your car isn’t road-trip ready. Using your own car can save money if it’s reliable.
Q: Do I need to book hotels in advance?
A: For popular destinations and weekends, yes. For smaller towns, you can often book as you go.
Q: What’s the best way to save on gas?
A: Use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest stations along your route.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Many hotels and parks are pet-friendly, but check policies before you go.
Conclusion: Start Planning Your 2 Week Road Trip USAConclusion: Start Planning Your 2 Week Road Trip USA
2 week road trip USA is one of the best ways to see the country’s top sights, meet new people, and create lasting memories. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything from big city lights to quiet mountain roads. Whether you follow this itinerary or create your own, the open road is waiting. Have you taken a cross-country road trip? Share your favorite stops and tips in the comments below!
Ready to hit the road? Start planning your 2 week road trip USA today and discover the adventure of a lifetime!
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