Four Week USA Road Trip Itinerary

This four week USA road trip itinerary takes you from New York to Los Angeles, exploring historic cities, scenic landscapes, and cultural hotspots. Highlights include iconic landmarks in Washington, D.C., live music in Nashville, vibrant streets in New Orleans, and natural wonders like the Grand Canyon. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of urban exploration and outdoor adventures.

Currency

US Dollar (USD).

Local Language

English.

Visa Requirements

ESTA required for travelers under the Visa Waiver Program; UK, EU, Canadian, Australian, and NZ citizens typically qualify.

Expense Level

$$$.

Plug Type

Type A and B; voltage is 120V.

Safety

Generally safe; exercise caution in urban areas at night and keep valuables secure.

Vaccination

No specific requirements.

Payment

Cards widely accepted; cash is handy for tips and small vendors.

Nightlife

Vibrant in major cities like New York, New Orleans, and Las Vegas.

Best Months to Visit

April to June or September to October for mild weather.

Climate

Varies by region; pack layers for cooler cities, light clothing for warm areas, and comfortable shoes.

Water Safety

Tap water is safe to drink throughout the USA.

Tipping

15-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and tips for hotel and tour staff.

Cultural Etiquette

Americans value punctuality, politeness, and tipping.

Emergency Numbers

Emergency: 911

Time Zone

Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Time Zones.

New York City Itinerary

Overview

Start your USA road trip in New York City, the cultural and financial hub of the USA, famous for its landmarks, Broadway, and diverse neighborhoods.

Four Week USA Road Trip Itinerary — Times Square, NYC

How long to stay in New York City

3 days

Best hotels to stay in New York City

HI New York City Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here.
Pod Times Square (Budget option) – Modern and compact. Book here.
The Plaza Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Iconic luxury near Central Park. Book here.

What to do in New York City

Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ($24.50 for ferry and entry).
Walk through Central Park and visit The Met ($30 suggested donation).
Explore Times Square and Broadway (Free, show tickets ~$50-$150).
See the city from the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock ($40-$50).

Where to eat in New York City

Joe’s Pizza ($) – Iconic New York-style pizza. Google Review: 4.6
Katz’s Delicatessen ($$) – Famous pastrami sandwiches. Google Review: 4.7
Le Bernardin ($$$) – Upscale French dining. Google Review: 4.8

The famous sandwich of Katz’s Delicatessen

Philadelphia Itinerary

Overview

Philadelphia, the birthplace of America, is known for its rich history, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

Philadelphia Itinerary — Philadelphia City Hall at night

How to get to Philadelphia from New York City:

Drive (2 hours)

How long to stay in Philadelphia:

1 day

Best hotels to stay in Philadelphia

Apple Hostels of Philadelphia (Highly rated hostel) – Social and affordable. Book here.
Alexander Inn (Budget option) – Quaint and centrally located. Book here.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco (Boutique hotel) – Stylish luxury near historic landmarks. Book here.

What to do in Philadelphia

Visit Independence Hall and see the Liberty Bell (Free).
Explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art and run up the “Rocky Steps” ($25).
Stroll through Reading Terminal Market for food and local crafts (Free).

Where to eat in Philadelphia

Jim’s Steaks ($) – Classic Philly cheesesteaks. Google Review: 4.5
Zahav ($$) – Renowned modern Israeli cuisine. Google Review: 4.8
Vetri Cucina ($$$) – Upscale Italian dining. Google Review: 4.9

Washington, D.C. Itinerary

Overview

Washington, D.C. is the nation’s capital, filled with iconic monuments, free museums, and political history.

Washington, D.C. Itinerary — The White House, Washington, DC.

How to get to Washington, D.C. from Philadelphia:

Drive (2.5-3 hours).

How long to stay in Washington, D.C.

3 days

Best hotels to stay in Washington, D.C.

HI Washington, D.C. Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and close to attractions. Book here
Hotel Hive (Budget option) – Trendy and compact rooms. Book here
The Jefferson (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious with historic charm. Book here

What to do in Washington, D.C.

Tour the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument (Free).
Visit the Smithsonian Museums like Air and Space or American History (Free).
Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol Building (Free).

Where to eat in Washington, D.C.

Ben’s Chili Bowl ($) – Iconic chili dogs. Google Review: 4.5
Founding Farmers ($$) – Farm-to-table comfort food. Google Review: 4.6
Minibar by José Andrés ($$$) – Innovative fine dining. Google Review: 4.9

Fine dining option Minibar by José Andrés

Asheville Itinerary

Overview

Asheville is a charming city in the Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and scenic beauty.

Asheville Itinerary — Downtown Asheville

How to get to Asheville from Washington, D.C.

Drive to Asheville via Roanoke (6-7 hours)

How long to stay in Asheville

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Asheville

Sweet Peas Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here
The Mountaineer Inn (Budget option) – Simple lodging with mountain views. Book here
The Omni Grove Park Inn (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious mountain retreat. Book here

What to do in Asheville

Visit the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned home ($70 entry).
Explore the artsy River Arts District (Free).
Hike the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views (Free).
Stroll through Downtown Asheville for shops, galleries, and live music (Free).

Rough Ridge Hike: Breathtaking Views on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Where to eat in Asheville

White Duck Taco Shop ($) – Creative taco flavors. Google Review: 4.7
Early Girl Eatery ($$) – Southern comfort food. Google Review: 4.6
Cúrate ($$$) – Upscale Spanish tapas. Google Review: 4.8

Nashville Itinerary

Overview

Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, is famous for its live music, country heritage, and vibrant nightlife.

Nashville Itinerary — U.S. Navy Blue Angels over Nashville

How to get to Nashville from Asheville

Drive to Nashville via Knoxville (4.5 hours)

How long to stay in Nashville

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Nashville

Nashville Downtown Hostel (Highly rated hostel) – Convenient and social. Book here
The Alexis Inn & Suites (Budget option) – Affordable with modern amenities. Book here
The Hermitage Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Iconic luxury and historic charm. Book here

What to do in Nashville

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum ($28).
See a live show at the Grand Ole Opry ($50+).
Explore the honky-tonks on Broadway Street (Free, drinks extra).
Tour the historic Ryman Auditorium ($27).

Where to eat in Nashville

Hattie B’s Hot Chicken ($) – Famous Nashville hot chicken. Google Review: 4.7
The Southern Steak & Oyster ($$) – Southern classics with a modern twist. Google Review: 4.6
Etch ($$$) – Creative upscale cuisine. Google Review: 4.8

Memphis Itinerary

Overview

Memphis is the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, offering rich musical history, delicious BBQ, and historic landmarks.

How to get to Memphis from Nashville:

Drive to Memphis (3 hours)

How long to stay in Memphis

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Memphis

Hostel Memphis (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and artsy. Book here
Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis (Budget option) – Affordable with great views. Book here
The Peabody Memphis (Boutique hotel) – Famous for its luxurious charm and resident ducks. Book here

What to do in Memphis

Tour Graceland, Elvis Presley’s home ($75).
Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel ($17).
Walk along Beale Street for live music and nightlife (Free).
Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River ($20).

Where to eat in Memphis

Central BBQ ($) – Iconic Memphis-style barbecue. Google Review: 4.6
The Beauty Shop ($$) – Eclectic dining in a retro beauty parlor. Google Review: 4.7
Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar ($$$) – Upscale small plates. Google Review: 4.8

New Orleans Itinerary

Overview

New Orleans, nicknamed the “Big Easy,” is famous for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and vibrant French Quarter.

New Orleans Itinerary — Honoring history—Jackson’s equestrian statue stands tall. 🐎✨

How to get to New Orleans from Memphis:

Drive to New Orleans via Jackson (5.5 hours)

How long to stay in New Orleans

3 days

Best hotels to stay in New Orleans

City House Hostel New Orleans (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here
Hotel St. Pierre (Budget option) – Historic charm in the French Quarter. Book here
Hotel Monteleone (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with the iconic Carousel Bar. Book here

What to do in New Orleans

Walk through the French Quarter and visit Jackson Square (Free).
Take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River ($40-$50).
Tour St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 with a guide ($25).
Experience live jazz on Frenchmen Street (Free, drinks extra).

Breathtaking French Quarter Walking Tours

Where to eat in New Orleans

Café du Monde ($) – Beignets and coffee. Google Review: 4.6
Commander’s Palace ($$) – Iconic Creole fine dining. Google Review: 4.7
GW Fins ($$$) – Upscale seafood. Google Review: 4.8

Commander's Palace — The Peppermint “Hot Chocolate” Tart at Commander’s Palace

Austin Itinerary

Overview

Austin, Texas, is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” offering vibrant nightlife, food trucks, and outdoor activities.

How to get to Austin from New Orleans:

Drive to Austin via Houston (7 hours)

How long to stay in Austin

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Austin

Austin Motel (Budget option) – Retro vibe in South Congress. Book here
The Driskill Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Luxurious and historic. Book here

What to do in Austin

Explore the South Congress Avenue for shops, murals, and food trucks (Free).
Watch the bats emerge from the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset (Free).
Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool ($5).
Enjoy live music at The Continental Club ($10-$20 cover).

Where to eat in Austin

Franklin Barbecue ($) – Legendary BBQ. Google Review: 4.8
Loro ($$) – Asian smokehouse fusion. Google Review: 4.7
Uchi ($$$) – Upscale Japanese dining. Google Review: 4.8

Santa Fe Itinerary

Overview

Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, is known for its Pueblo-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and Southwest cuisine.

Santa Fe Itinerary — Institute Of American Indian Arts Museum

How to get to Santa Fe from Austin

Drive to Santa Fe via Amarillo (9 hours)

How long to stay in Santa Fe

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Santa Fe

The Sage Hotel (Budget option) – Comfortable and colorful. Book here
Inn of the Five Graces (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with Southwest decor. Book here

What to do in Santa Fe

Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum ($20).
Stroll through the historic Santa Fe Plaza and shops (Free).
Explore the interactive art exhibit at Meow Wolf ($30).
Take a day trip to Bandelier National Monument ($25 per car).

Where to eat in Santa Fe

The Pantry ($) – Classic New Mexican fare. Google Review: 4.7
La Choza ($$) – Traditional Southwestern cuisine. Google Review: 4.6
Geronimo ($$$) – Fine dining in a historic adobe building. Google Review: 4.8

New Mexican classics from The Pantry Restaurant

Grand Canyon Itinerary

Overview

The Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Grand Canyon Itinerary — View from the South Rim

How to get to the Grand Canyon from Santa Fe

Drive to the Grand Canyon via Flagstaff (7 hours)

How long to stay in the Grand Canyon

2 days

Best hotels to stay near the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon International Hostel (Flagstaff) (Highly rated hostel) – Affordable and nearby. Book here
Red Feather Lodge (Budget option) – Conveniently located near the South Rim. Book here
El Tovar Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Historic lodging on the canyon rim. Book here

What to do in the Grand Canyon

Hike part of the Bright Angel Trail for stunning views (Free).
Watch the sunrise or sunset at Mather Point or Hopi Point (Free).
Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center for exhibits and guided tours (Free).
Take a helicopter tour over the canyon ($200-$300).

Hiking the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon

Where to eat near the Grand Canyon

We Cook Pizza & Pasta ($) – Casual dining near the South Rim. Google Review: 4.4
El Tovar Dining Room ($$) – Upscale dining with canyon views. Google Review: 4.6

Las Vegas Itinerary

Overview

Las Vegas is a dazzling city in the Nevada desert, famous for its casinos, nightlife, and extravagant entertainment.

Las Vegas Itinerary — Downtown Las Vegas

How to get to Las Vegas from the Grand Canyon

Drive to Las Vegas via Hoover Dam (4.5 hours)

How long to stay in Las Vegas

2 days

Best hotels to stay in Las Vegas

Hostel Cat (Highly rated hostel) – Budget-friendly on the Strip. Book here
The LINQ Hotel (Budget option) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here
The Bellagio (Boutique hotel) – Luxury with Italian-inspired decor. Book here

What to do in Las Vegas

Walk along the Las Vegas Strip and visit iconic hotels (Free).
See the Fountains of Bellagio show (Free).
Take a day trip to the Hoover Dam ($15 for guided tours).
Watch a live performance like Cirque du Soleil ($75+).

Where to eat in Las Vegas

Secret Pizza ($) – Hidden spot with great slices. Google Review: 4.5
Lotus of Siam ($$) – Renowned Thai cuisine. Google Review: 4.7
Joel Robuchon ($$$) – Michelin-starred French dining. Google Review: 4.8

Los Angeles Itinerary

Overview

Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, offers sunny beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign.

How to get to Los Angeles from Las Vegas:

Drive to Los Angeles (4 hours)

How long to stay in Los Angeles

4 days

Best hotels to stay in Los Angeles

Samesun Venice Beach (Highly rated hostel) – Vibrant atmosphere near the beach. Book here
The Adler Inn (Budget option) – Affordable and centrally located. Book here
The Beverly Hills Hotel (Boutique hotel) – Luxury and historic charm. Book here