A Michigan to California road trip is a quintessential American experience that offers an impressive blend of natural wonders, iconic landmarks, and charming towns along the way. From the stunning lakeshores of Michigan to the sun-soaked beauty of California, you are sure to enjoy the adventures in store no matter which route you take.
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Below are five options for a Michigan to California road trip, designed to suit every traveler’s preferences and interests. Whether you’re drawn to a northern path, a southern adventure, or the quickest possible drive, each route is designed to see the very best along the way.
A couple of notes: you can certainly take each of these road trips backwards, from California to Michigan, if thats works best for you. You’ll just follow the points of interest in the opposite direction.
Also, I set up each of these road trip routes to start in Detroit and end in Los Angeles, simply to make it easier to calculate mileage and drive time (and because if you are flying in/out of a city, it will more than likely be these). However, if you want your starting and ending cities to be different, the mileage and times will be slightly off.
Michigan to California Road Trip Option 1: Route 66
Distance: 2500 miles
Approx Driving Time: 36 hours
Major Points Of Interest: Route 66 Museum, Gateway Arch, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Cadillac Ranch, Wigwam Motel, Santa Monica Pier
A Route 66 road trip is an iconic drive filled with diverse attractions and unforgettable experiences. This famous highway, often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” is a popular route that stretches across eight states, offering a mix of charming towns, historic landmarks, and quirky roadside stops.
Here’s a glimpse of some of the things you can see and do on your Route 66 journey.
Illinois: The Gateway to Route 66
As you enter Illinois, you’ll find yourself in Chicago. The city is a must-visit, offering a stunning skyline, cultural attractions, and delicious food (deep-dish pizza anyone?). You could spend as much or as little time as you’d like experiencing the city before hitting the road.
The official start of Route 66 is in the middle of Chicago. Snap a photo at the iconic Route 66 Begin sign on E. Adams St. right by the Art Institute of Chicago and follow the route out of the city.
As you head south, take a quick stop in Wilmington to see the famous Gemini Giant statue. Then learn more about the road’s history at the Route 66 Museum in Pontiac.
Missouri: A Taste of the Midwest
As you continue west, Missouri welcomes you with its charming small towns and the bustling city of St. Louis.
Stop by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and enjoy some classic St. Louis BBQ. This would also be a nice city to spend a night in if you wanted to experience more of the historic city on the mighty Mississippi.
If you like exploring caves, Meramec Caverns is right off of the route and could be a fun way to spend an hour or two.
Oklahoma: The Land of Red Earth
Continuing west through Oklahoma, you’ll be treated to its rugged beauty, with red rock formations and stunning sunsets.
Be sure to explore the historic Route 66 districts in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, where you’ll find quirky roadside attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa.
Texas: Wide Open Spaces
Texas offers wide-open spaces and a chance to experience cowboy culture and Tex-Mex cuisine.
The Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo is a famous roadside art installation, with 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.
For those who want to get out and stretch their legs with a hike or two, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is just south of Route 66 outside of Amarillo. Here you’ll find the second-largest canyon in the country along with stunning landscapes.
New Mexico: A Desert Oasis
New Mexico’s unique landscape features desert vistas and adobe-style architecture. Stop in Santa Fe to appreciate its art scene and dine on delicious Southwestern cuisine.
Arizona: Natural Wonders
Arizona boasts some of the most iconic Route 66 landmarks. Visit the Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert, and stand on the corner in Winslow, Arizona, made famous by the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy.”
You can also spend a night at the famous Wigwam Motel in Holbrook for a truly unique accommodation experience.
Close to the border with California, you can check out Oatman, known for the town’s roaming burros and mining history.
California: The Final Stretch
The final stretch of this scenic journey begins as you reach the Golden State. Before you reach the coast, swing up to Mojave National Preserve, where you can see Joshua Trees and the Kelso Dunes, some of the largest sand dunes in the country.
Don’t forget to soak up the sun and glamor of Los Angeles before you end your road trip. Check out the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 officially ends, and see a bit of the stunning coastline of California Highway 1 before you say goodbye.
Michigan to California Road Trip Option 2: The Northern Route
Distance: 4000 miles
Approx Driving Time: 48 hours
Major Points Of Interest: Mackinac Island, The Great Lakes, Glacier National Park, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Highway 1
For those seeking a northern road trip adventure, this journey from Michigan to California offers a different perspective, with stunning natural beauty and vibrant cities dotting the route. Here’s what you can expect to see along the way.
Mackinac Island
From Detroit, you’ll head north through Michigan to Mackinac Island, a car-free paradise in Lake Huron. Explore the island’s historic charm, with horse-drawn carriages and picturesque views. Biking is a great way to get around, and you can’t leave without trying some of the island’s famous fudge.
The Great Lakes
As you drive through Michigan, you’ll see three of the five Great Lakes: Huron, Michigan, and Superior. Due to its size, Lake Superior is actually considered an inland sea, and when you realize how massive it is, you’ll understand why!
These vast bodies of freshwater offer countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking along the rugged coastlines. As you drive, you should try and stop a few times along the lakes to stretch your legs and soak up the views.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
About halfway through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll come across Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This area is absolutely gorgeous and worth spending at least a full day, but more if you have the time.
There are miles and miles of trails here, and you could spend as much time as you wanted exploring the shoreline. I’d recommend doing the Mosquito Falls and Chapel Falls via Chapel Loop trail if you want to experience the best of the shoreline with some waterfalls thrown in.
You can also take a glass bottom boat tour here to check out some of the hundreds of shipwrecks in Lake Superior.
Duluth
Leaving Michigan behind, your northern route adventure takes you through a piece of Wisconsin before entering Minnesota at Duluth.
This city is nestled on the shore of Lake Superior and is known for its maritime history and vibrant arts scene. See the historic Aerial Lift Bridge and check out Park Point, one of the world’s longest freshwater sand spits. There are also plenty of fantastic restaurants and shops to explore.
For those who want to spend a few days in the area (which you definitely should), a drive up the North Shore towards Canada is an absolute must. Drive as far as you’d like, exploring the various state parks, beaches, lighthouses, and hidden gems along the way.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Continuing westward, you’ll cross through Minnesota and into North Dakota, where the landscape transforms into rolling prairies and unique geological formations.
The state’s wide-open spaces and big skies create a sense of freedom as you travel. Make a stop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park to witness the striking landscapes and encounter local wildlife.
There are three sections of the park: Elkhorn Ranch Unit, North Unit, and South Unit. The South Unit is the section off of I-94 that is along your route. If you are short on time, this unit is worth a stop for some quick exploring. If you have more time, venture up to the other two units to see a side of the park not as many people make the time for.
Glacier National Park
Crossing into Montana, prepare to be awestruck by the pristine wilderness of the state. The drive through Montana is beautiful and worth taking your time.
Then you’ll reach Glacier National Park, probably the most beautiful national park I’ve been to yet. You’ll have the chance to hike through pristine forests, marvel at glacial-carved valleys, and snap photos of crystal-clear lakes. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-drive for breathtaking vistas.
Here’s the perfect one-day itinerary for Glacier National Park for you to get inspiration for your visit here.
North Cascades National Park
As you leave Montana, you’ll go through a small stretch of Idaho and then enter Washington. On your way to Seattle, you’ll pass through North Cascades National Park. This underrated park is stunning and has beautiful mountain forests, glaciers, and lakes. Spend some time here hiking or just enjoying the views from the road.
Seattle
You’ll then head south to Seattle. Explore this dynamic city known for its coffee culture, iconic Space Needle, and vibrant Pike Place Market. Don’t miss a visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit.
From here, you can also make day trips to two other national parks: Olympic and Mount Rainier. These parks are worth the few extra days in the area.
Portland
Continuing south, make a stop in Portland, Oregon, where you can indulge in diverse culinary delights and explore the city’s unique neighborhoods. The city’s vibrant arts scene and lush green spaces add to its charm.
If you aren’t sick of national parks yet (and I don’t know how you could be!), spend a day in Mt Hood National Forest and check out the impressive Mt. Hood, a dormant volcano with excellent skiing in the winter.
From Portland, head to the coast and ride it all the way down through California.
San Francisco
The final leg of your journey begins as you enter California, where you’ll continue south along California Highway 1 to San Francisco.
San Francisco is such a fun city and deserves as much time as you can give it. Discover the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Savor fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf and explore the vibrant neighborhoods via the trolleys.
California Highway 1
Continue south from San Francisco along California Highway 1, one of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world.
You should do this drive in as many days as you are able. When I did this drive, I took 3 days, but I wish I would have had longer because there were so many more hikes I would have wanted to do and so many more stops I could have made. Three days was adequate, but I wouldn’t do it in less than that.
Wind your way along the rugged coastline, enjoying dramatic ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns. Stop in Carmel-By-The-Sea and take in the breathtaking views at Big Sur before continuing south and ending your road trip in Los Angeles.
Michigan to California Road Trip Option 3: The Straight Shot
Distance: 2300 miles
Approx Driving Time: 33 hours
Major Points Of Interest: Chicago, Omaha Zoo, Denver, Zion National Park, Las Vegas, Mojave National Preserve
If you’re looking for a more direct Michigan to California road trip, this route offers a faster journey while still showcasing some exciting points of interest along the way.
Chicago: The Windy City
Crossing from Michigan into Illinois, make a stop in Chicago, often dubbed the “Windy City.”
Admire the city’s iconic skyline, explore world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, and savor deep-dish pizza, which the city is famous for.
Omaha Zoo: A Zoological Marvel
Continuing west, Omaha, Nebraska, boasts one of the nation’s top zoos, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Spend a day exploring its impressive exhibits and getting up close to exotic animals.
I can personally attest that this zoo is the best one I’ve ever seen. My husband and I visited on our way back from a couples road trip through Nebraska, and it was fantastic. In fact, when our son is old enough to really enjoy it, we are going to go back to Omaha purely for the zoo.
Even if you don’t have kids, this zoo is well worth the stop.
Denver: The Mile High City
As you journey further west into Colorado, Denver beckons with its urban charm and stunning mountain backdrop. If you’re craving some hiking, Rocky Mountain National Park is north of the city and worth a day or two of exploring.
In the city itself, you can enjoy the thriving arts scene, visit the Denver Art Museum, check out Coors Brewery, and take a scenic walk through the nearby Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
Arches National Park
Entering Utah, you’ll encounter the breathtaking Arches National Park. There’s so much to see here, but some of the highlights include Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, Balanced Rock, and Courthouse Towers.
Zion National Park
Zion is one of Utah’s most popular national parks. Here you can hike among massive sandstone cliffs and towering red rock formations, visit the waterfalls at the Emerald Pools, explore the iconic Zion Narrows, and witness the Virgin River as it carves through the canyon.
Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital
Your route south takes you to Las Vegas, Nevada, where you can enjoy world-class entertainment, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Las Vegas strip. Try your luck at the casinos or take in a spectacular show. I highly recommend the Cirque du Soleil shows or the Tournament of Kings dinner show.
When you’re ready for a break from the city, take some day trips to places like Valley of Fire State Park, the Hoover Dam, and Red Rock Canyon. You could even do a kayaking trip on the Colorado River, which is one of the tours I did the last time I was in Vegas. It was a fantastic time and a great way to escape the heat of the desert!
Mojave National Preserve: Desert Wilderness
Continuing west into California, the Mojave National Preserve offers a serene escape amidst the desert wilderness. Explore unique geological features like the Kelso Dunes and the Joshua Tree Forest.
California: The Golden State
From the Mojave Desert, make your way to the bustling streets of Los Angeles or, if you want to keep going, head north to eclectic San Francisco.
This direct Michigan to California road trip route provides a faster way to reach your destination, while still offering opportunities to explore interesting cities, natural wonders, and iconic landmarks along the way. Whether you’re interested in the urban appeal of Chicago, the natural beauty of Zion National Park, or the excitement of Las Vegas, this journey promises a wide range of experiences to enjoy.
Michigan to California Road Trip Option 4: The Southern Route
Distance: 3000 miles
Approx Driving Time: 43 hours
Major Points Of Interest: Cincinnati, Mammoth Cave National Park, Nashville, New Orleans, The Alamo, Saguaro National Park, Joshua Tree National Park
For those seeking a southern road trip from Michigan to California, this route offers a blend of cultural richness, natural wonders, and iconic landmarks.
Cincinnati: Ohio River City
Crossing from Michigan into Ohio, Cincinnati welcomes you with its scenic views along the Ohio River. Explore the city’s cultural attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum and the historic Over-the-Rhine district.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Heading south into Kentucky, make a stop at Mammoth Cave National Park. With its sprawling underground labyrinth, this is the longest cave system in the world.
Take a guided tour to explore the fascinating world beneath the earth’s surface or hike the trails above ground that wind through the hills and forest in the area.
Nashville: Music City
As you continue further south into Tennessee, Nashville awaits with its legendary music scene. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame, and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Nashville is probably my favorite city in the United States (and I’ve been to a lot of them). I am a huge country music fan, so I feel like it’s mandatory for lovers of the genre to visit at least once.
However, I know quite a few people who aren’t big into country music and they loved the city too. The music scene is much bigger than just the one genre, and you can find so many amazing things to see and do no matter what you like.
New Orleans: The Big Easy
Crossing into Louisiana, New Orleans offers a unique blend of French, African, and Spanish cultures. Experience the lively jazz music scene on Bourbon Street and savor Creole and Cajun cuisine.
You can also get out of the city for a bit and spend time at a beach, check out a plantation tour, or visit the bayou and scout for alligators.
Houston: The Bayou City
Once you get into Texas, you’ve got a lot of driving ahead of you. Break up the trip by stopping in Houston.
The city has some fascinating museums, like the Holocaust Museum and the National Museum of Funeral History. Take a stroll around the Botanic Garden, visit Battleship Texas, or check out one of the many breweries in the city.
The Alamo
In San Antonio, make a stop at the Alamo, which provides a glimpse into the state’s rich history. Explore the historic Spanish mission and fortress compound and learn about the events that unfolded here.
Saguaro National Park
Once you make it into Arizona, Saguaro National Park showcases the iconic saguaro cacti, the nation’s largest cacti. Hike the desert trails and witness these towering giants up close.
Joshua Tree National Park
Once you arrive in California, Joshua Tree National Park offers a stunning desert landscape. Explore unique rock formations, hike among Joshua trees, and stargaze under the clear desert skies.
Los Angeles
The final leg of this Michigan to California road trip takes you to the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles. Dive into the glamor of Hollywood, stroll along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, and visit Universal Studios for an unforgettable entertainment experience.
Michigan To California Road Trip Option 5: National Parks
Distance: 4200 miles
Approx Driving Time: 38 hours
Major Points Of Interest: Badlands National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Arches National Park, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Death Valley National Park, Yosemite National Park
This route from Michigan to California offers an opportunity to explore a bunch of America’s national parks and journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States.
pro tip:
Since you’ll be visiting a lot of national parks on this itinerary, you should absolutely get an America the Beautiful Pass, which will let you get into all of the mentioned national parks for one price for one year. It will save you hundreds of dollars if you hit all the parks on this route, and you will have paid for the pass after only visiting 3 parks.
Note: There are 15 national parks listed on the map above. Depending on your time restrictions, you may not have the chance to visit them all on this trip. If you can, that’s fantastic (and I’m super jealous). However, feel free to skip any that you’ve visited before or that you’d like to spend more time at a later date.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Located on the southern shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes is a lesser-known national park with diverse plant and bird life.
Hikers will love the over 50 miles of trails, and there are over 15 miles of beaches along the lake for those who want to relax and enjoy the water.
Badlands National Park
Crossing into South Dakota, Badlands National Park welcomes you with its surreal lunar-like landscapes. Hike among striking rock formations and watch for bison and bighorn sheep.
We spent about a day here when we visited and really enjoyed the variety of hiking trails available. We also witnessed a stunning sunrise which was one of the highlights of our trip.
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park may be on the smaller side, but it is definitely worth spending a few hours here.
The main attraction, the cave itself, is fantastic and well worth the visit. There are also a few trails topside that are enjoyable if you have some extra time to spend here.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Heading further west, you’ll reach Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park. Hike any of the numerous trails and explore alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and soaring peaks. Or drive along Trail Ridge Road, a scenic highway that offers breathtaking views.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
To be honest, I didn’t even know this small national park in Colorado existed, but when I did some research, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park looks stunning and well worth a stop on your Michigan to California road trip.
There are plenty of scenic drives that take you around the rim of the canyon, and if you are in the mood for a hike, there are plenty of options of all lengths and difficulty levels.
Arches National Park
Entering Utah, you’ll encounter the famous red rocks of Arches National Park. Marvel at over 2,000 natural stone arches and bridges, a photographer’s paradise.
Canyonlands National Park
Another one of the Mighty 5 national parks in Utah, Canyonlands National Park boasts more diverse landscapes, amazing hikes, and breathtaking rock formations.
Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park boasts fascinating geological wonders, including the Oyster Shell Reef, Strike Valley, Cathedral Valley, Gypsum Sinkhole, and the Waterpocket Fold.
Bryce Canyon National Park
The greatest concentration of hoodoos (irregular spirals of rocks) in the world is located at Bryce Canyon National Park. Visitors can check out the four main viewpoints to see these wonders around the park.
Zion National Park
Continuing south, Zion National Park is the last of the Utah Mighty 5 national parks on your road trip. This park offers a dramatic contrast with its lush canyons and towering sandstone cliffs. One of the most popular things to do here is to hike through the narrow slot canyons of The Narrows.
Grand Canyon National Park
Crossing into Arizona, the Grand Canyon awaits. Stand on the rim and gaze into the vast chasm carved by the Colorado River. Hike the trails or take a helicopter ride for a different perspective.
Joshua Tree National Park
Making your way into California, Joshua Tree National Park is small but definitely worth at least a quick visit. Check out the Joshua trees that give the park its name and spend some time looking for wildlife like roadrunners, jackrabbits, and bighorn sheep.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park showcases extreme desert landscapes. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and marvel at Dante’s View for stunning panoramas.
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is the home of the giant, ancient Sequoia trees that are almost too big to be believed. Marvel at the trees on any of the stunning hikes here, and don’t forget to find General Sherman, the world’s largest tree.
Yosemite National Park
The final highlight of this Michigan to California road trip concludes in the iconic Yosemite National Park. Explore the lush valleys, towering waterfalls, and granite cliffs. Don’t miss a visit to Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point.
How to Plan a Michigan to California Road Trip
Setting out on a cross-country road trip is an exciting adventure, but a successful journey requires some careful planning and preparation. Here are some key things to consider when getting ready for your epic road trip, no matter which route you decide to take.
Choose Your Route
Start by selecting which route best suits your desires for your journey. Consider the points of interest and landmarks you’d like to visit along the way. What time restrictions do you have? Will you be able to see everything you want in the amount of time you have?
Plan Your Stops
Determine your planned stops along the route. Research the attractions, national parks, cities, and scenic spots you want to explore. You may not want to see everything on the above itineraries, and there may also be some places you want to add.
Once you know where you want to stop, create an itinerary that outlines how many days you’ll spend in each location and the activities you want to do there. Be sure to include time for rest and relaxation and also some wiggle room in case you run into car trouble or bad weather.
Make a Budget
Estimate the costs associated with your road trip, including gas, accommodations, food, attractions, and any unexpected expenses or road trip emergencies. Having a budget will help you stay on track financially and make sure you don’t come home completely broke.
Here are some of the best ways to save money on a road trip to help you make the most of your budget.
Book Accommodations & Attraction Tickets
Once you know the places you want to see, where you’ll be stopping, and what your budget is, you should book your accommodations and tickets. You should try to do as much of this in advance as you can, especially if you plan to visit popular tourist destinations.
Booking your hotels ahead of time makes sure that you have someplace to sleep every night. I know that being spontaneous can be a lot of fun, but you’ll also save a lot more money and be able to budget better if you know where you are staying each day.
You should also reserve any attraction tickets or tours you want to experience to avoid disappointment upon arrival. Some national parks have a ticketed system and only let so many people into the park on a given day, and if you don’t secure these ahead of time, you can’t get in.
Make A Packing List
Create a packing list that includes clothing, toiletries, camping gear (if needed), and any specialized equipment for your planned activities.
Be sure to also pack important documents, including driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle registration, as well as maps, GPS or navigation apps, and chargers for your devices.
See below for a more detailed list of items you might want to pack.
Get Your Car Tuned Up
Before hitting the road, take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection.
Make sure your car is in good working condition with properly inflated tires, brakes in good shape, and all fluids topped off. Carry essential tools, a spare tire, and an emergency kit.
Hit the Road
With all your preparations complete, it’s time to hit the road. While you should try to stick to your planned itinerary so you can stay on point with your budget and time frame, you should also be flexible, allowing room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries along the way.
What to Pack for a Michigan to California Road Trip
To ensure a successful road trip, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for various situations and destinations along the way. Here are some items to include in your packing list.
Essential documents
While carrying your driver’s license is probably second nature, you’ll also need to ensure you have the vehicle registration and proof of insurance, as well as health insurance documents.
If you are renting a car, you’ll also want to have the rental paperwork stored in a secure, easy to access location too.
Cooler
A cooler stocked with drinks and snacks is helpful when you’re on the road and want to stay nourished and hydrated on the drive. It’s also a great place to store perishable items.
Not sure how big of a cooler to get? Here’s a list of the best options for a road trip.
Non-perishable food + drinks
Pack a supply of non-perishable road trip food such as trail mix, granola bars, canned goods, and other items that don’t require refrigeration. Include a variety of beverages that you can pop in the cooler each day to stay hydrated.
Jumper cables + air compressor
It’s always a good idea to have jumper cables to handle any unexpected battery issues. I actually prefer to travel with a portable car battery so you don’t even need another vehicle to get the car started.
An air compressor is also a great tool that can help maintain proper tire pressure and to sustain a leaky tire until you can get it repaired or replaced.
First aid kit
A well-stocked first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers is a good idea to pack as well as any necessary prescription medications.
Road atlas + printed itinerary & directions
While digital navigation is convenient, it’s wise to also have a physical road atlas and a printed itinerary with directions, just in case of poor cell reception or if you phone dies or breaks.
Tire chains
If you’re traveling through mountainous regions or during the winter, tire chains can provide added traction in snowy or icy conditions.
Ice scraper/brush
If you are traveling in the winter, or in snowy and cold climates, an ice scraper and brush are essential for cleaning your vehicle’s windows and windshield.
National Park Pass
If you plan to visit multiple national parks along the way, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass. It provides entry to over 2,000 national sites and is good for one year.
For a more comprehensive packing list for every road trip adventure, check out this post.
Michigan to California Road Trip FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Michigan To California?
Depending on which route you opt to take, it can take anywhere from 33 to 48 hours to drive from Michigan to California, not including time factored in for stops.
What is the quickest route from Michigan to California?
The quickest route from Michigan to California is “The Straight Shot” itinerary listed above, which takes approximately 33 hours to drive without stops. This is assuming you are driving from Detroit to Los Angeles. If you have a different starting and/or ending city, the time will be slightly different.
What are the top attractions on a Michigan to California road trip?
A Michigan to California road trip boasts an incredible number of attractions, ranging from natural wonders to bustling cities.
Some top attractions include Chicago’s skyline, the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, the iconic Grand Canyon, the majestic Yosemite National Park, and the vibrant cities of New Orleans, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
There are also countless charming small towns, scenic routes, and unique roadside stops along the way to discover. No matter what route you decide to take, you won’t be disappointed in the things to see and do along the way.
What is the best time of year to take a Michigan to California road trip?
Late spring and early fall are among the best times for a Michigan to California road trip, as the weather is milder and there are fewer crowds.
Summers can be beautiful but can also bring more tourists and hot temperatures, especially in the Southwestern deserts.
A winter road trip is possible, but be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions in some regions, especially in the northern states and mountainous areas. If you decide to take this road trip in the winter, factor in extra time and have a backup route in case the highways get shut down due to weather.
Is it better to fly or drive from Michigan to California?
Whether you decide to fly or drive from Michigan to California depends on your budget, preferences, and the amount of time you have available.
Flying can save a lot of time and is more convenient for those who prefer to focus only on the starting and ending destinations. However, you will miss out on all attractions and sights along the way.
Driving allows you to experience the journey and explore all the gems along the way. If you have the time, a road trip from Michigan to California is a fantastic adventure.
Conclusion: Michigan to California Road Trip
Setting out on a road trip from Michigan to California is a journey filled with adventure and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you choose the northern route, southern route, or a more direct path, this cross-country adventure promises a wide range of natural wonders, cultural gems, and diverse landscapes.
From iconic cities and national parks to charming small towns and quirky roadside attractions, these Michigan to California road trips offer a unique opportunity to explore the heart of America.
