road trip itinerary from los angeles to seattle

Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

If you have the time and energy for a drive from one end of the country to the other, a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle might be just the trip for you. With an itinerary spanning thousands of miles across several routes, there are countless beautiful places to admire on the way to Emerald City.

A road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle can be done in about 17 hours. If you have a couple of weeks to spare, make the most of the trip by driving along the Pacific Coastline Highway through California and Oregon and admiring the breath-taking scenery.

Read on below for some help in planning out this incredible journey – you'll definitely be needing it!

How far is Seattle from Los Angeles and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle covers between 1,130 and 1,400 miles, depending on the route. If you want to get there quickly, you can split the trip into a few days and drive for a total of 17 hours, while the most scenic route can take as much as 30 hours.

The most straightforward way to get from LA to Seattle is along the I-5. You'll be passing through major cities like Sacramento and Portland, and the latter two-thirds of the drive have plenty to offer in the way of beautiful sights.

If you want to make the California stretch of the drive more scenic while still keeping the drive as short as possible, consider taking Hwy 395 out of Los Angeles past a long sequence of national forests and parks. This only takes about 2 hours more than the I-5 route, but the downside is you won't be going through Sacramento.

Last, but certainly not least, driving along the entire West Coast (save for Alaska) on Highways 1 and 101 is unequivocally the most epic route you can take – sticking to the Pacific Coast for most of the trip, you'll drive through an immense chain of landmarks and natural wonders.

With that said, this is not the route to take if you're short on time – the winding coastline roads necessitate slow and careful driving, meaning a one-way trip can take about 30 hours without even accounting for traffic.

Best road trip route from Los Angeles to Seattle

In terms of seeing as much as possible, the Pacific Coast route is the clear winner. If you have a long vacation ahead of you, you could probably drive this route both ways and still have places left to visit for next year's trip.

A drive like this is a huge commitment, though, and you might be tempted to take one of the other routes. If you're not particularly interested in Sacramento or making detours to the coastline, Highway 395 can offer a lot of beautiful views without adding too many miles to your trip.

Whether you're flying into Los Angeles or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

The Fast Route (I-5)

Take the I-5 north out of Los Angeles, passing through Santa Clarita and Los Padres National Forest. Further north, you'll be passing by Henry W. Coe State Park and through Stockton before eventually reaching Sacramento. Splitting the trip into 3 days, this is a great stop for night one.

Past Sacramento, you'll find yourself sandwiched between Mendocino National Forest on the left and several forests a bit further east – you'll be quite close to Lassen National forest further up north, before driving through Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Further up past Umpqua National Forest, drive through Eugene and Salem, and you'll soon pass Mt. Hood National Forest before reaching Portland, another great place to stop.

After crossing the Columbia River, drive past Mt St. Helens National Volcanic Monument and Capitol State forest before entering Olympia. Continuing along the interstate through Lakewood and Tacoma, it's only a matter of time before you reach Seattle.

The Coastline Route (Highways 1 and 101)

Starting the route off on a high note, take Highway 1 through Santa Monica and along the Malibu coast, passing by a sequence of national parks all the way to Oxnard. From there, take Highway 101 east through Ventura and Santa Barbara, before joining State Route 154 through Los Padres NF and past Lake Cachuma.

Take Highway 101 again through Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo, then join Highway 1 as it approaches the coast. Follow the highway along a beautiful chain of landmarks – the Big Sur and its surrounding parks, then Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey.

Driving along Monterey Bay, pass through Santa Cruz and cross San Fran's Golden Gate Bridge. Past Mendocino, you'll briefly separate from the coast as you pass by King Range National Conservation Area along Highway 101.

Soon after, though, you'll be back to the shore and driving past Redwood National Park and Forest and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, among others.

Crossing the Columbia River into Oregon, drive through Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and along Willapa Bay.

Instead of taking State Route 105 back to the coast, stick to Highway 101 – not long after passing Artic, take State Route 107 (which segues into State Route 8) east past Capitol State Forest and into Olympia. From there, just follow the I-5 into Seattle.

The Forest Route (Highway 395)

Take State Route 14 out of Los Angeles and through Lancaster – continue going north until it segues into Highway 395. As soon as you reach the highway, you'll have Death Valley National Park to the right and the majority of California's parks and forests to the left.

Some of the more notable places ones you'll be passing in California are Sequoia and Inyo National Forests, Yosemite National Park, Tahoe National Forest & Lake, and Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

In Oregon, you'll be driving through Fremont-Winema, Umpqua, and Willamette National Forest before joining the I-5 at Eugene.

After getting on the interstate, you'll be following the same route outlined in the I-5 section – drive north through Portland and Olympia before eventually reaching Seattle.

Best places to stop between Los Angeles and Seattle

With 3 massive and vastly different routes to choose from, there is no shortage of great places to stop between Los Angeles and Seattle. You'll definitely want to stop as often as possible and explore, and these are some of the best places to do so:

Marvel at the elegance of Palace Hotel (San Francisco)

This is the kind of vacation where you'll constantly be on the move, so if you only have a night or two to spend in San Francisco, you might as well spend them in style! One of the absolute best hotels in the entire West Coast would have to be San Fran's Palace Hotel.

The high ceilings and gilded walls give this breathtaking hotel its castle-like ambient, and it would be easier to list the amenities Palace Hotel doesn't have – you can enjoy a meal or drink and the incredible dining area or bar, an indoor pool under a glass dome, spa and fitness centers, and 24-hour concierge service to ensure all your needs are met. To top everything off, rooms are very spacious and boast incredible views of San Francisco.

The only thing better than a fancy hotel is one with a great location, but Palace Hotel ticks both of those boxes – located in the heart of San Francisco, you can access all of the city's highlights within minutes. The rooms here don't come cheap, but you'll be guaranteed an unforgettable stay.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Unwind at Tenaya Lodge (Yosemite National Park)

Few places in California are as scenic and iconic as Yosemite, and it's also home to some beautiful inns and hotels. Picking the best one is no easy feat, but a very strong contender would have to be Tenaya Lodge.

Combining the elegance of Yosemite's mountains with a stylish design and top-of-the-line amenities, Tenaya Lodge comes equipped with a spa, a fitness center, a fancy on-site restaurant, and an incredibly stylish interior. If you're the social type, step outside onto the gorgeous communal pool area and get to know your fellow guests.

This hotel is the perfect hub for exploring Yosemite, no matter the season. The area's varied landscape makes it perfect for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, rock climbing, and just about any outdoor activity you can think of. And did I mention Yosemite's incredible landscapes?

Things to see on a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle

Totaling over 50 hours of driving between the 3 routes (and potentially many more if you get creative), there are far too many things worth checking out to list them all. As great as Seattle is, few vacations can compare to the experience of driving there from Los Angeles.

Here are some places you'll definitely want to check out:

• San Luis Obispo – Beautiful city that's home to Pismo Beach and Montana de Oro State Park.
• Big Sur/Bixby Creek Bridge – Featuring one-of-a-kind scenery, this coastline features mountains and redwood forests alike.
• Carmel-by-the-Sea/Monterey – Two of the major cities along California's Central Coast, there's few places are better for oceanside relaxation. We highly recommend visiting Monterey State Beach .
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park – A mixture of redwoods and many other species defines this unique forest.
• Point Reyes National Seashore – A gigantic park preserve with one of the best views of the ocean you're ever likely to see.
• Humboldt Redwoods State Park – A beautiful redwood forest, and the largest primeval forest existing today.
• Klamath National Forest – A gorgeous forest spanning nearly 2 million acres, featuring lakes, ponderosa pines, and beautiful mountain views.
• Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest – With incredible mountain views and the world's tallest pine tree, this forest is not to be missed.
• Olympic National Park – This beautiful area boasts large beaches, forests, and wildflower meadows.
• Death Valley National Park – One of the hottest places on earth and home to countless canyons and salt dunes, this park needs no introduction.
• Sequoia and Inyo NF – Between these two forests, you'll see some incredibly tall sequoia trees and a large stretch of the White Mountains, including Mount Whitney.
• Yosemite National Park – A perfect cross of mountains, valleys, and rare formations, this geological wonder is a must-see.
• Tahoe Lake & National Forest – Features amazing greenery, beautiful lake water, and a great view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
• Williamette & Mt. Hood National Forests – Two very scenic forests along the Willamette River – the former is thought to house the endangered Northern spotted owl.
• Capitol State Forest – This forest is home to countless beaver dams and the inexplicable Mima mounds.
• Mt Rainier National Park – A breathtaking park featuring meadows, waterfalls, and the stratovolcano Mount Rainier.
• Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest – You can find some of America's most dramatic mountain expanses and beautiful valleys here.

Best time to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle

Certain segments of the road trip from LA to Seattle are better in certain seasons. For example, driving by the Pacific Coast on hot summer mornings often means passing through thick fog, and many of the forests and parks you'll be passing along the way have wintertime restrictions.

Although there are benefits to checking out each route at a different time of year, Seattle itself is a different story – the city gets an average of 18 rainy days per month in its rainy season (from mid-fall to January), and the highest temperatures you can hope for this time of year are 50 degrees, while the lowest are around 35 degrees.

The best time to visit Seattle would have to be mid-spring to early fall. Temperatures peak at around 73 degrees in the summer, and May tends to cap off at a perfect 65 degrees. This is also when most of the city's major events take place, including the Seattle International Film Festival.

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Ultimate LA To Seattle Road Trip Itinerary – Best Stopovers + Scenic Route Map

A scenic route from Los Angeles to Seattle road trip offers an incredible journey through diverse landscapes, charming towns, and breathtaking vistas. In this article, let’s check about scenic stopovers when driving from LA to Seattle by car.

👉🏼Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary – 6 Best Places To Stop on Pacific coast highway

LA To Seattle Road Trip – LA To Seattle Drive

Road trip from la to seattle distance —.

The road trip from LA to Seattle covers a distance of approximately 1,130 to 1,200 miles and takes approximately 17 to 18 hours without any stops.

Read this Los Angeles to Seattle road trip itinerary guide if you plan to drive from LA to Seattle with scenic stopovers. Here’s a detailed Los Angeles to Seattle road trip itinerary with stopovers, overnight stay hotel names, things to do, and why they are worth the visit.

LA To Seattle Road Trip Map

Day 1: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

With its beautiful beaches, historic charm, and wine country allure, Santa Barbara offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration on your LA to Seattle road trip.

👉🏼Where To Stop Between LA And Santa Barbara

• Distance From Los Angeles:  Approximately 95 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Take the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for stunning ocean views.

Stopover:  Santa Barbara

Hotel:  Stay at the historic and luxurious  Belmond El Encanto  for old-world charm and modern elegance.

Things to Do:

• Explore the beautiful beaches and stroll along the  Stearns Wharf.
• Visit the  Santa Barbara Mission  for a glimpse into California’s history. 
• Enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards in the  Santa Ynez Valley .

Day 2: Santa Barbara to Big Sur

Big Sur’s dramatic coastal cliffs, majestic redwood forests, and iconic landmarks like McWay Falls make it an essential scenic stopover, offering unparalleled natural beauty and serenity on your LA to Seattle road trip.

👉🏼Epic Big Sur Itinerary One Day – Scenic Stopovers, Things To Do, & Hotels

• Distance From Last Stopover:  Approximately 160-170 miles, 3 to 4 hours drive
• Scenic Route: As Highway 1 is closed from Santa Barbara to Big Sur, so take another route. There is small detour on Highway-1 on Pacific Coast Highway and therefore check google map to reach Big Sur from Santa Barbara . 

Stopover:  Big Sur

Hotel:  Book a stay at the iconic  Post Ranch Inn, perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean or Big Sur River Inn besides the river. This hotel offers unparalleled views and luxury accommodations.

• Hike through the majestic redwoods in  Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park .
• Visit McWay Falls , a stunning waterfall cascading onto a pristine beach.
• Relax and rejuvenate at the  Esalen Institute’s  natural hot springs.

Day 3: Big Sur to Monterey

Monterey’s renowned aquarium, picturesque Cannery Row, and breathtaking 17-mile Drive offer a perfect blend of coastal charm and natural beauty, making it an essential scenic stopover on your LA to Seattle drive.

👉🏼10 Best Things To Do This Weekend In Monterey CA

• Distance From Last Stopover:  Approximately 40 miles, 1 to 1.5 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Continue on Highway 1 for more coastal beauty.

Stopover:  Monterey

Hotel:  Stay at the  Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa  for breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and luxurious accommodations.

• Explore the world-famous  Monterey Bay Aquarium , home to diverse marine life.
• Take a stroll along  Cannery Row  and indulge in fresh seafood.
• Drive or walk along  the 17-mile Drive  for spectacular ocean vistas and iconic landmarks like the  Lone Cypress .

Day 4: Monterey to San Francisco

San Francisco’s iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene, provide a captivating urban contrast to the coastal journey. This makes it an essential and dynamic scenic stopover on your LA to Seattle road trip itinerary.

👉🏼Perfect LA to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary 8 – 10 Days

• Distance From Last Stopver:  Approximately 120 miles, 2 to 2.5 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Drive along Highway 1 until you reach the outskirts of San Francisco.

Stopover:  San Francisco

Hotel:  Choose the luxurious   Fairmont San Francisco  for its classic elegance and panoramic city skyline views.

• Walk across the  Golden Gate Bridge  for breathtaking city and bay views.
• Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, such as  Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown , and the  Mission District .
• Ride a cable car up the city’s steep hills for a quintessential San Francisco experience.

Day 5: San Francisco to Napa Valley

Napa Valley’s rolling vineyards, Michelin-starred dining, and luxurious spas offer a serene and indulgent escape, making it an unmissable scenic stopover for unparalleled wine-country experiences on your LA to Seattle road trip itinerary.

👉🏼Best Scenic Drives In Napa Valley (Itinerary + Things To Do)

• Distance From Last Stopover:  Approximately 50 miles, 1 to 1.5 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Take Highway 101 North to Highway 37 East, then Highway 121 into Napa Valley.

Stopover:  Napa Valley

Hotel:  Stay at the luxurious  Auberge du Soleil   for exquisite accommodations, Michelin-starred dining, and panoramic views of the vineyards.

• Go  wine tasting at some of Napa Valley’s  world-renowned wineries.
• Take a  hot air balloon ride  for a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards and valley.
• Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment amidst the picturesque surroundings.

Day 6: Napa Valley to Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks boast towering coastal redwoods, ancient groves, and breathtaking coastal vistas, providing an awe-inspiring natural setting and a serene escape from the road, making it an essential scenic stopover on your LA to Seattle road trip itinerary.

👉🏼10 Scenic Drives Near San Jose – Best Stopovers, Things To Do & FAQs

• Distance:  Approximately 330 miles, 6 to 7 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Take Highway 101 North through the lush landscapes of Northern California.

Stopover:   Redwood National and State Parks (Near Crescent City)

Hotel:  Choose from various accommodations in Crescent City, such as the  Oceanfront Lodge  or  Curly Redwood Lodge .

• Marvel at the towering coastal redwoods, some of the tallest trees on Earth.
• Hike through the ancient groves and experience the tranquility of the forest.
• Visit the nearby beaches for stunning ocean views and possible wildlife sightings.

Day 7 of Los Angeles To Seattle Road Trip: Redwood National and State Parks to Seattle

Seattle offers a vibrant cultural scene, iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, and breathtaking natural beauty with its proximity to the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains. For a diverse and unforgettable experience, Seattle is an essential destination on any West Coast road trip from LA.

👉🏼Perfect Road Trip To Yosemite From Los Angeles With Scenic Stopovers

• Distance From Last Stopover:  Approximately 350 miles, 6 to 7 hours drive
• Scenic Route:  Drive north on Highway 101 and then take Highway 199 East to Interstate 5, leading to Seattle.

Stopover:  Seattle

Hotel:  Stay in downtown Seattle at the luxurious  Fairmont Olympic Hotel   for its timeless elegance and convenient location.

• Explore the iconic  Pike Place Market  and watch the fishmongers in action.
• Visit the  Space Needle  for panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound.
• Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront or relax in one of Seattle’s many parks, like  Kerry Park,  for a postcard-worthy view of the city skyline.

This scenic road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and luxurious accommodations, making it a journey worth savoring.

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We are the independent owners of this site, and the views expressed in it are our own. I own all photographs. There can be slight differences in distances, locations, or other details for which I (the owner) am not responsible. This post may contain affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you. I will earn money if you click through affiliates and make a purchase.

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The Open Road Travel

• Oct 3, 2021

Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle/ Drive The Pacific Coast Highway

Updated: Dec 9, 2022

A road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle is a wonderous adventure that takes you almost the full length of America’s Pacific coast.

You’ll follow some of the most beautiful roads in the country, such as the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway), as you travel through California, Oregon, and Washington. While not a journey for the faint of heart, there may not be a more scenic road trip in the United States, or perhaps even the world.

So, if you’re planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle or would like to drive the Pacific Coast Highway and want to make sure you don’t miss any of the attractions along the way, I highly suggest reading on.

A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle: How Far Is It & How Long Will It Take To Get There?

There are two routes available for a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle and both are long but straightforward.

The most direct route takes 17 and ½ hours and covers 1,135 miles. This will see you take the I-5 the entire way from Los Angeles to Seattle.

For anyone who wants to take the more scenic route and follow the Pacific Coast Highway, you are looking at 1300 miles, with a much longer driving time of 31 hours.

This route starts where California State Route 1 (the official name of the Pacific Coast Highway) begins, in Dana Point, Orange County. You will follow this for its 656-mile duration, to Leggett, California.

Here it will merge with US 101, which you’ll follow until just past the town of Artic, Washington. Pick up Washington State Route 107 where it begins and take it its 8-mile duration, before continuing east on US 12.

A short while later, the US 12 will veer to the right, but you’ll continue straight on Washington State Route 8. Follow this for its 21-mile duration, where you’ll re-join US 101. You’ll take this to Olympia, where it merges with I-5, which will lead you the rest of the way to Seattle.

Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

No matter which route you take for your road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle, it is a long journey that will need to be split across multiple days. While there are plenty of great places to stop along the way, the following three are the best options for an extended visit

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most famous cities in the United States. Originally founded in 1776 with the Mission San Francisco De Asis, its population exploded with the California Gold Rush of 1849.

The city’s current population stands at almost 900,00, with residents often being polled as having among the highest incomes and quality of life anywhere in America.

The popularity of San Francisco doesn’t just relate to the residents either. It is also one of the most common tourist destinations in America, with more than 25 million visitors arriving in the city each year.

Attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf are well-known around the world, while its collection of museums, sports teams, parks, and movie locations fill it out as a destination with plenty to offer for everyone.

Tourists are also particularly drawn in by the city’s low crime rate and overall friendly atmosphere. This creates a confidence that you will be able to have a fun-filled trip, without having to worry about your safety or feeling unwelcome.

Best Hotel To Stay At In San Francisco – Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

The Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf is a beautiful establishment in Fisherman’s Wharf, located just a stones throw from Pier 39 and Pier 33.

This leaves you well placed near some of the most popular attractions in the city, as well as just a short walk from the only ferry that docks on Alcatraz Island.

The beautiful rooms all feature stylish décor and comfortable furniture, and are equipped with technology and amenities like Wi-Fi, an iPod dock, flat screen cable TV, CD player, refrigerator, and safe.

The public areas are equally attractive, with a seating area in the lobby offering tea and coffee for you to relax with and enjoy your surroundings. There is also a wonderful Italian restaurant on site, serving fresh seafood and Italian delicacies each day from 6am to 10pm.

Sacramento (Short Route)

Sacramento is the capital of California and the 6th largest city in the state. As one of the major hubs of finance and government on the west coast, it is among the fastest growing cities in California.

The city is widely popular with tourists, as it features numerous museums and art institutions, as well as plenty of film and music attractions and some of the finest restaurants in the country.

Perhaps the most popular attraction is the part of the city known as Old Sacramento, which is made up of buildings and cobbled streets from the mid 1800’s.

Many of the buildings have been preserved or restored, and visitors can explore them on steam trains and horse-drawn carriages, giving you the chance to experience the traditional way of life.

The city boasts a great Chinatown area, as well as one of the largest LGBT communities in America. These both go a long way to explaining why Sacramento is often viewed as one of the country’s most diverse cities.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Sacramento – Delta King Hotel

The Delta King Hotel is perfectly situated on the edge of the Sacramento River, with Old Sacramento immediately to its rear. This is ideal whether you want to relax on the property’s sun terrace taking in the views or exploring the city’s most iconic attractions.

Each room is simply yet stylishly designed, to offer guests a comfortable, relaxing place to stay during their visit. Amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a cd player, coffee machine, flat screen TV, and computer come as standard, ensuring maximum convenience.

The property also boasts its own bar and restaurant, where guests can enjoy a drink or fine meal. A choice of American or continental breakfast is also available each morning.

Portland is the largest city in Oregon and second in the entire Pacific northwest. The area began to be settled in the 1830’s, before being officially founded in 1845. It is located at the end of the historic Oregon Trail.

Portland is often referred to as “Bridgetown”, due to the numerous bridges in the city that pass back and forth across the Willamette River. Many of these are designated historic landmarks and offer a fabulous combination of incredible architecture and stunning views.

While the city is often overlooked by tourists, it has a fabulous collection of museums, music and film venues, and performing arts establishments. It is also famous for its distinctive cuisine, and features a number of breweries, making it a perfect stop for anyone who is a fan of craft beers.

Perhaps as much of a draw as anything in Portland itself is the city’s stunning location. With forests, mountains, and oceans in every direction, it’s an ideal place for adventurers who love the great outdoors.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Portland – The Benson, A Coast Hotel

The Benson, A Coast Hotel is a historic property, set in the heart of Downtown Portland. With marble floors and crystal chandeliers, the hotel features a style sure to wow even the pickiest of guests.

The Palm Court lobby restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, which includes a range of specialities like tapas and cocktails. Complimentary Starbucks tea and coffee is offered here each morning, while you can enjoy live jazz music of an evening from Wednesday to Saturday.

Room service is also available if you’d rather dine in private. Each of the stunning rooms features luxuries like organic bathrobes and slippers, free toiletries, a flat screen cable TV, tea and coffee making facilities, and Wi-Fi.

24-hour business, conference, and fitness centres are available for all guests to use, while concierge and laundry services are also offered if required.

Best Time For A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

When it comes to picking the best time for a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle, you won’t find a better option than the period between early June and mid-August. The reasons for this are twofold.

Firstly, these months feature the best temperatures along the route and at your destination. With the Pacific northwest being known for an often rainy, foggy climate, this gives you the best opportunity to enjoy the adventure and all of its attractions, from start to end.

Then there is the fact that parts of this route are often affected by wildfires at the end of Summer and beginning of Fall. Finishing your road trip by mid-August allows you to still enjoy fabulous temperatures, while avoiding these recurring natural disasters.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

With over a thousand miles whichever route you take, a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle takes you past an incredible number of attractions. The following list features those that shouldn’t be missed by anyone hoping to make the most of this wonderful adventure.

Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

Located in the northern section of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area (SMMNRA) covers almost 157,000 acres, making it the largest urban national park in the world.

Its range of mountains, rock formations, wildlife, and stunning vistas make it an incredible natural destination that is in stark contrast to the sprawling metropolis it borders.

Malibu, California

Notorious for its “21 miles of scenic beauty”, Malibu is an upmarket beach community, that is extremely popular with celebrities. Beaches feature stunning stretches of golden sand and are usually considerably quieter than those closer to the city.

Malibu is also incredibly popular with the surfing community, due to its strong currents and powerful breaks. Surfrider Beach was the first beach on Earth to be declared a World Surfing Reserve back in 2010.

This makes “The Bu” an ideal stop, whether you want a relaxing day at the beach or to get out in the ocean and ride the waves.

Channel Islands National Park

Located just off the coast, Channel Islands National Park features 5 beautiful islands, brimming with wildlife and incredible views of the Pacific ocean. The islands are surrounded by kelp forests, which grow up to 100 feet down to the ocean floor.

Tourists can visit the islands through a single ferry that departs from Oxnard harbour each morning. Once there, options like hiking the Anacapa Island Loop, snorkelling or scuba diving in the kelp forest, or a night camping are all possibilities.

The islands are home to species including the rare island fox, as well as almost 400 species of birds. Meanwhile, in the surrounding waters, you can hope to see dolphins, sea lions, seals, spiny lobsters, and whales.

San Simeon, California (Hearst Castle)

San Simeon is a small area right on the Pacific coast, that is often visited by people hoping to see the Piedras Blancas Rookery, a large nesting ground for northern elephant seals. However, its most famous attraction is undoubtedly Hearst Castle.

An early 20th century, hilltop mansion, constructed by William Randolph Hearst, Hearst Castle now serves as a museum and California State Park, as well as a National Historic Landmark.

Its stunning architecture is a site to behold. The interiors feature elaborate furnishings and designs, which house Hearst’s extensive range of collections. Meanwhile, the exteriors boast features like pergolas and pools.

The most infamous attraction of Hearst Castle is the zebras that freely roam the grounds. While the original plans for a zoo were never realised, these iconic creatures have lived here for decades, making it likely the only place you will see them outside of an enclosure in the United States.

Big Sur, California

Often referred to as the most scenic stretch of road anywhere in the contiguous United States, Big Sur features rugged mountain landscapes and stunning ocean vistas. The village of the same name boasts the largest collection of shops and visitor centres for more than 70 miles.

Big Sur is a fabulous destination that offers adventurers the chance to explore the area, with hiking trails off into the forest or down to the ocean below. Despite its remote, rural location, it receives as many visitors each year as nearby Yosemite National Park, due to its breathtaking natural beauty.

Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Carmel-By-The-Sea is a historic town that was settled in 1770 by the Spanish, with the construction of the Mission San Carlos Borromeo De Carmelo.

One of the most authentic Roman Catholic mission churches in California, it is in fabulous condition and is the only one in the state to feature its original tower and bell.

A National Historic Landmark, it is also listed on the National Register Of Historic Places. While it is still an active parish church, it doubles as a museum, displaying exhibits that teach visitors the history of both the area and the building itself.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is one of the newer national parks in the country, first established in 2013. It is known for its dramatic rock formations, which include caves, pinnacles, and spires, spread out across the hills of a rugged, volcanic landscape.

Rock climbing and caving are popular activities in the park, while nature lovers enjoy hiking the trails. During the springtime, the trails are alive with wildflowers, while bats, bobcats, deer, and foxes freely roam the park.

It is an especially good opportunity for birdwatchers, as among the 180+ species of birds that call the park home is the iconic California condor.

San Jose, California

San Jose is the third most populous city in California and tenth most in the United States. It is known as a center for innovation, as it is the largest city in Silicon Valley, the heart of the United States tech industry.

Filled with beautiful buildings, a vibrant arts culture, and some of the finest establishments in the country, it is a perfect place to stop and take in a show or have a night out in a big city to break up your road trip.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an iconic landscape, which has featured in films such as Return Of The Jedi. Woodlands of massive, old-growth coastal redwood trees surround prairies, rivers, and streams, along 40 miles of California’s coastline.

From taking in the ocean vistas and enjoying relaxing fishing trips to hikes around canyons and tidal pools, Redwood National Park offers an abundance of opportunities.

With bears, deer, and elk roaming the forest, almost 300 species of birds living in its canopy, and California sea lions on the shoreline, you’ll never be short of unique wildlife to be on the lookout for.

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

Covering almost 1.8 million acres between the Cascade, Klamath, Oregon Coast, and Siskiyou mountain ranges, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest is one of the most scenic national forests in the country.

Visitors will get to explore wilderness areas and forests full of old growth trees, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls. It is even the home of the worlds largest pine tree, a ponderosa pine that stands 268 feet tall.

Siuslaw National Forest

Siuslaw National Forest is a unique destination that is a mix of coastal forests and sand dunes. These combine with lakes, rivers, streams, and stretches of shoreline, to create a wide range of ecosystems and habitats.

The forest is a popular destination for people who enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, off-roading, or exploring tide pools. Climbers will also find the highest peak in the Oregon Coast Range, Mary’s Peak, which stands 4097 feet high.

Salem, Oregon

Salem is the state capital and second largest city in Oregon. It also served as the capital of the Oregon Territory for most of its existence, from 1851 until it was admitted to the union in 1859. This makes it a fabulous destination for anyone interested in the history of Oregon.

A collection of museums, parks, churches, theatres, and the Capitol building itself provide plenty of places to learn about the city and its surrounding areas, as well as the state of Oregon as a whole.

Olympic National Park & Forest

Olympic National Park is one of the most northern and western national parks in the contiguous United States. Known primarily for its rugged mountains and glaciers, visitors have the opportunity to explore one of the wildest parts of America.

Subalpine forests and temperate rainforests are filled with meadows, rivers, and waterfalls, creating a picturesque scene straight off of a postcard. Deer, elk, and goat live in harmony with countless species of birds and marine mammals, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Olympia, Washington

Olympia is the capital of Washington state and is known as the cultural centre of the southern Puget Sound region.

Among its most popular attractions are the state Capitol building, the 1909 Governor’s Mansion, and Percival Landing Park, which features a beautiful boardwalk and displays of local art.

Nearby, nature lovers will also enjoy the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife refuge, which is home to more than 200 species of birds.

Tacoma, Washington

The third largest city in Washington, Tacoma is often referred to as the “City Of Destiny”, as it was selected as the western end of the Northern Pacific Railroad. A city that relies heavily on industry, it features the largest port in the state.

Among the most popular draws for visitors are the presence of the University Of Washington Tacoma, as well as the densest collection of art and history museums in Washington.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is based around a massive volcano in the Cascade Mountains, surrounded by meadows, waterfalls, and 27 major glaciers.

Considered the snowiest regularly measured location in the world during winter, you can explore a pristine, white wilderness, enjoying activities like skiing, snowshoe trekking, and tubing.

Then, in the summer months, you will encounter beautiful wildflower displays, full of wildlife including bear, deer, elk, goats, marmots, and more than 180 species of birds. You will also have the opportunity to partake in activities such as rock climbing.

A road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle along the Pacific Coast Highway is an incredible adventure, along one of the most beautiful roads in the world. It gives you the opportunity to see some of the most stunning vistas and breathtaking scenery you will ever experience.

While a journey of this length won’t be for everyone, those who enjoy the freedom of a road trip will find more value from this route than most other options I can think of.

Hopefully, you will now have all the information you need to maximise your enjoyment of the trip and experience all the wonders along the way. That means all that’s left is to start getting things booked, so you can hit the road as soon as possible and see all the wonders for yourself.

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The Ultimate Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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The west coast of the United States is one of the most beautiful, dynamic and interesting places to visit in the entire country, and one of the best ways to see the entirety of this area is by planning a Seattle to Los Angeles road trip.

Spanning three states, there is so much to see when driving from Seattle to LA and it is the perfect way to experience some of the best places the West Coast has to offer.

While the distance from Seattle to Los Angeles is approximately 1135 miles, and 18 hours of drive time along the I-5, the route is best experienced if you take the time to get off of the interstate, hop on the PCH and see some of the highlights of one of the most iconic road trips in the world.

Table of Contents

Planning a Seattle to Los Angeles Drive

Before I get into the day-by-day logistics of your road trip, we need to discuss a few things about planning your trip first. And more than anything, we need to discuss how you’re planning on getting around.

If you’re not driving your own vehicle while on your West Coast road trip, you’re likely going to need to rent a car.

While most major car rental companies have offices in Seattle and Los Angeles , we would suggest searching on Rentalcars.com to find your car hire. This platform aggregates prices across many major rental companies, ensuring that you can get a great deal on your car hire.

Alternatively, if you want to take this road trip with an RV or campervan, you’ll find a great range of options on Outdoorsy – one of the leading online marketplaces for motorhome rentals.

Once you’ve got your wheels sorted, you need to think about how long you have to devote to this road trip. While you can certainly just drive from Seattle to Los Angeles or San Diego in a couple of days, if you want to make a proper trip out of it, we would recommend spending a bit longer on the road.

This entire Seattle to LA road trip itinerary spans about two weeks and it actually doesn’t contain the time that you should be spending in both Los Angeles and Seattle. It also doesn’t cover even a fraction of the amazing places that you could step, however, it does cover the absolute highlights.

Of course, if some of these stops don’t interest you, you can absolutely do this road trip in a shorter period of time, it’s just important to know that you won’t be able to see and do everything on this itinerary.

2 Week Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1-2: seattle to portland, mount rainier national park, washington.

Leaving Seattle towards Portland, your first stop on your road trip to California is at the incredible Mount Rainier National Park . A true paradise for outdoor lovers, this national park is home to one of the highest peaks in the United States and is littered with incredible natural scenery and countless hiking trails.

You can easily stop off at the national park and go for a day hike before continuing further south into Oregon, or, if you have more time on your hands, you can always opt to spend longer around Mount Rainier to really do this incredible national park justice.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

From Mount Rainier, it’s time to continue further southwest into Oregon and to visit one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the state, Cannon Beach. Located close to the border with Washington, this city is known for its incredible beach and beautiful scenery.

Make sure to get out of the car and go for a long walk down the expansive beach and take in the iconic Haystack Rock, which is a massive rock formation just off of the beach and the attraction that Cannon Beach is famous for. Make sure to take the time to explore the main town of Cannon Beach, as well, as it is absolutely charming.

Portland, Oregon

End your first day on your Seattle to LA drive in the cool, hip city of Portland , Oregon. As Oregon’s largest city, Portland has a lot to offer visitors including interesting sites, a very cool culture, great restaurants and cool bars.

Make sure to take the time to spend at least one full day in Portland itself on this west coast road trip, however, we would suggest spending at least two or three nights here in order to use it as a base to explore the towns and sites nearby.

If you’re short on time and want to see the highlights, consider this half-day city tour.

Where to Stay in Portland

Private Rental — In Portland and really on the entirety of this drive, finding a private holiday rental is a fantastic option for accommodation. Whether you’re on a budget and looking for a private room in a local’s home or want to stay in unique lodgings like this chic house near downtown Portland , there are countless properties available.

The Society Hotel — Centrally located within close proximity of all of the best sites in Portland, this hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a comfortable place to base themselves in the Oregon city. They have an array of rooms available and a tasty restaurant on site.

Travelers House — If you’re on a budget or travelling solo, then this hotel is a great option for you. They have both dorm and private rooms available, self-catering facilities, and good commons areas that make it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Portland!

Day 3: Portland Day Trips

Columbia river gorge, oregon.

Located just east of Portland, this makes for an excellent first stop from the Oregon city on your third day of this road trip. The Columbia River Gorge is a top sight in the state of Oregon and is absolutely beautiful and worth a stop. Make sure to take the time to go for a walk and enjoy the gorgeous scenery that you’re about to surround yourself with.

Tillamook, Oregon

If you’re a cheese-lover, then you absolutely cannot go wrong with a stop in the charming little town of Tillamook. Known for its dairy, the Tillamook Creamery makes for a great stop along the way. Sample its iconic sharp cheddar cheese or even get a scoop or two of delicious Tillamook ice cream.

Lincoln City, Oregon

If you want to experience more of Oregon’s beautiful coastal regions, then make sure to head west to lovely Lincoln City. Boasting a gorgeous beach and charming main town filled with kitschy shops, local artists studios and great food, Lincoln City makes for a great day trip from Portland while on your road trip from Seattle on the way to Los Angeles.

Days 4-5: Southern Oregon

Willamette valley, oregon.

From Portland, it’s time to head south and experience the wonderful Willamette Valley or Oregon — the state’s premier wine-growing region!

Oregon wines are gaining renown and have achieved some critical acclaim in recent years, however, this region isn’t nearly as well-known as the California regions that you may be visiting later in this Seattle to Los Angeles road trip.

You can take the time to hop from winery to winery and do some tastings (just make sure that you have a designated driver!) or just enjoy the gorgeous scenery while driving through and maybe stop in at one of the many fantastic restaurants in the valley.

Eugene, Oregon

South on the I-5 of Portland lies the city of Eugene, a bustling university town with a hip environment and a great atmosphere.

Packed full with fantastic restaurants, cool bars and a bustling craft beer scene, there are also lots of outdoor activities near Eugene that make the city worth visiting, as well.

Bend, Oregon

And your final stop for the day on the drive from Portland — and a wonderful place to spend the night — is the charming city of Bend. Located just east of Eugene, Bend is known for being an outdoor lover’s paradise and is surrounded by countless hiking trails and beautiful natural spots to visit. The town itself is also worth exploring, with lots of cool shops an great restaurants.

Where to Stay in Bend

Hampton Inn & Suites — If you’re looking for a consistent and comfortable chain hotel in Bend, then this is a good option for you. They have myriad clean and comfortable rooms on offer, good amenities and facilities, and a central location perfect for exploring Bend.

Oxford Hotel — This boutique hotel is an excellent place to stay if you’re looking for a cute, locally run and eco-friendly place to stay in Bend. They have a range of rooms available, fantastic amenities, a central location, and a great breakfast sourced from local farmers in the morning.

Private Rental — If you value your privacy or simply would rather stay in a house than a hotel, then there are lots of private rentals to choose from in Bend. For instance, this historic Belle Millhouse within walking distance of the city centre is an excellent option.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Bend!

Day 6: Crater Lake & Crescent City, CA

Crater lake national park, oregon.

The second of the national parks to visit on this trip, Crater Lake National Park is an incredibly beautiful natural area located in the Cascade Mountains of Southern Oregon. Surrounded by stunning forest, this lake is formed by a collapsed cinder cone volcano.

There are countless hiking trails in the national park that are great if you want to get out and stretch your legs, however, there are also viewpoints that are easy enough to access if you don’t want to go for a hike.

You can also spend the night in Crater Lake after driving down from Portland instead of Bend on Day 5 if you prefer.

Crescent City, California

A Washington to California undoubtedly takes you by some of the most incredible natural scenery that the West Coast has to offer. And some of these world wonders include the incredible California Redwoods — the largest trees in the world.

While you can begin seeing these gigantic trees from this point until you reach Big Sur in California’s central coast, Crescent City is one of the best places to go for a walk amongst these giants.

The town itself also boasts a historic lighthouse, a lovely beach and charming main area filled with cute shops and great restaurants.

Where to Stay in Crescent City

Want a unique place to spend the night? Check out this deluxe cabin nestled amongst the Redwoods!

Lighthouse Inn — This quaint hotel boasts spacious rooms and a great, continental breakfast each morning, making it an ideal place to base yourself in Crescent City. They are centrally located and have numerous rooms available.

Travelodge Crescent City — Another fantastic option if you’re after a small yet basic hotel in Crescent City. Centrally located, they have clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and an option to include breakfast.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Crescent City!

Days 7-8: Crescent City to San Francisco

Fort bragg, california.

Northern California doesn’t get near the amount of recognition that everything south of San Francisco does, however, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t areas that aren’t worth visiting in the north of the state.

Begin your day working down to San Francisco in the charming coastal city of Fort Bragg in Mendocino County. The city boasts a wonderful beach and a lovely city centre that is very much worth exploring before hitting the road and continuing south.

Napa & Sonoma, California

Next stop on this road trip is one of the premier wine regions in the world, and certainly in the United States — Napa Valley and Sonoma.

Located directly next to each other, Sonoma is known for being a bit more laid back and cool than its more well-known neighbour of Napa, however, both are very much worth visiting if you’re interested in sampling some of the best wine in the world or sampling some world-class cuisine.

This area of California is home to many Michelin-starred restaurants, including Thomas Keller’s famous The French Laundry .

Sausalito, California

Just north of the Golden Gate bridge before you properly enter the city of San Francisco lies Sausalito, a charming little city with a great maritime history in Marin County.

The city itself has absolutely incredible views of San Francisco itself, along with the Bay and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. There is also a lovely town centre to explore coupled with some great restaurants.

San Francisco, California

Of course, no Los Angeles to Seattle road trip would be complete without spending time in one of the most iconic cities in the United States — San Francisco.

This dynamic metropolis has so much to offer visitors that it is very much a destination in its own right, however, on this road trip, we recommend planning to spend at least two full days exploring the city itself.

There is so much to see in the city from historic neighbourhoods to beautiful architecture to fantastic museums that you’re sure to be taken by this fantastic city by the bay,

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Orchard Hotel  —  A boutique hotel in the downtown area this is a great centrally located place to stay in the city. They have great rooms available and breakfast is included in the room rate.

Green Tortoise Hostel – An excellent option for solo and budget travellers in San Francisco, this hostel has dorm and private rooms on offer and great common areas for meeting other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in San Francisco!

Days 9-10: San Francisco to Monterey

Half moon bay, california.

Leaving San Francisco, you don’t have to drive far before you reach the lovely coastal town of Half Moon Bay.

Located about an hour south of the city, Half Moon Bay makes for a pleasant place to stop and wander around before hitting the road once more. There is a gorgeous beach and a lovely main street packed with cute shops and restaurants that are worth browsing.

Santa Cruz, California

Making your way to California’s central coast, you will reach one of the most iconic CA surf towns on the PCH — Santa Cruz!

Famed for its seaside boardwalk complete with a classic wooden roller coaster and other carnival games and rides, there is also a wonderful seaside promenade that you can walk along here and watch the surfers hit the waves.

Monterey & Carmel, California

Your final stop on this day of driving is in the city of Monterey and the nearby charming town of Carmel. These central coast towns are the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the wonders of Big Sur, however, they have a lot to offer as destinations in and of themselves, as well.

Monterey is famed for its world-renowned aquarium and the iconic Cannery Row — it was also the hometown of legendary American writer John Steinbeck!

Carmel has an incredible charm and a small-town feel. It is packed with great restaurants, lovely shops and countless wine-tasting rooms showcasing vintages from nearby wineries.

It is also worth it to explore the state parks near Carmel, particularly the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and, of course, going for the scenic 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach.

Where to Stay in Monterey & Carmel

Carmel Green Lantern Inn — If you want to stay in Carmel, this boutique bed and breakfast is a great option for you. They have a handful of cosy rooms with private entrances and a fantastic location close to Carmel Beach. 

The Stevenson Monterey – If you’re looking to stay in Monterey , then this budget motel is a fantastic choice for you. Situated just off the Pacific Coast Highway, they have several rooms available that are fantastic for those looking to explore the splendours of the area.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Monterey or Carmel!

Day 11: Big Sur

Big sur, california.

On day 11 of your Seattle to LA road trip, spend the entirety of it exploring the absolute jaw-dropping beauty of Big Sur .

This is definitely one of the highlights of this drive and it may truly be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Big Sur boasts incredible coastal vistas, stunning Redwood forests, interesting waterfalls and iconic feats of architecture.

Make sure to stop off at any of the countless vista points along the road and take in the beauty — you’re sure to see some otters floating around in the surf! If you’re up for it, we would also readily recommend that you go for a day hike in the surrounding area to really garner a great appreciation for just how lovely this land can be.

Days 12-13: California’s Central Coast

Pismo beach, california.

The drive between Monterey and Santa Barbara is one of the prettiest stretches of this California to Washington road trip as it takes you past some truly incredible landscapes along with some quintessential beach towns. And one of these such towns is Pismo Beach.

If you’ve ever wanted to see what an iconic California surfer town looks like, then Pismo is the perfect place for you. The town has a charming centre and a wonderful pier that makes it ideal for observing the countless surfers vying to catch the perfect wave.

A bit further north, you can also take in the lovely town and scenery of Morro Bay. This coastal town is known for Morro Rock Beach and its own lovely state park.

Solvang, California

A bit of a detour from the coastal highway but a great stop on the drive between San Francisco and LA nonetheless, the town of Solvang lies in the Santa Inez Valley and the road there will take you through hills of farmland and wine country that will have you thinking that you’ve been transported to Tuscany. However, the town of Solvang will leave you thinking that you’re in an old version of Copenhagen .

This town was incorporated by Danish settlers and it still holds onto some odd Danish charms that seem a bit out of place in the hills of central California — especially with the mild climate!

However, Solvang is filled with cute shops and restaurants and, as it’s situated in the heart of central coast wine country, there are lots of tasting rooms, as well.

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is a small city in southern California and it is well-known for being one of the premier destinations for Los Angelenos looking for a weekend getaway — and it’s not hard to see why! Santa Barbara is incredibly charming, has a great laid-back vibe and is filled with interesting things to see and do.

Known for its beautiful beach, there are also myriad wine tasting rooms in the city that the tourism office has put together something known as the Urban Wine Trails that can help you walk between them — no designated driver necessary!

The iconic Stearns Wharf also has some great restaurants and shops to browse and, because it is a student city, Santa Barbara boasts a vibrant nightlife.

Spending at least one day in Santa Barbara is an excellent last stop on your drive before you reach Los Angeles.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

The Presidio Hotel — A lovely boutique hotel, this is a great place to stay for couples in Santa Barbara. Centrally located, they have clean and comfortable rooms to choose from and a great location to explore the majority of the city on foot.

Cheshire Cat Inn   — A charming B&B in central, downtown Santa Barbara, this is another great choice to rest your head in the city. They have many fantastic rooms available and a hearty and healthy breakfast available each morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Santa Barbara!

Day 14: Santa Barbara to LA

Malibu, california.

Located just north of Los Angeles and the last stop on your road trip (or your first stop if you’re doing a LA to Seattle drive!), Malibu is one of the most iconic Southern California beach settlements in the world.

Known for its dramatic scenery, beautiful beaches and million-dollar homes, Malibu is really an interesting place to drive through on your route down south.

Some of the best beaches in LA County are in Malibu and, if you’re up for it, I would recommend stopping at one or two, squinching your toes in the sand and watching the surfers come and go.

Los Angeles, California

And that’s it — you’ve reached your final destination! Los Angeles is the United State’s second-largest city and it is eclectic and incredibly dynamic.

There are lots of cool things to see and do in LA including taking in some of the main sites like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, or browsing the designer shops on Rodeo Drive.

If you want to experience something kitschy and weird, make sure to head to Venice Beach for some of the best people-watching in the city or if you want to get active, take a hike in Griffith Park or Runyon Canyon for incredible views of the city. LA can be a difficult city for tourists to digest, however, it is worth spending the time to get to know it.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel — Located in Hollywood, this hotel is a perfect place to stay in LA. They have a number of great rooms available and fantastic amenities to ensure that your stay is a great one. 

Freehand Los Angeles — If you’re on a tight budget while in Los Angeles, then this hostel is a fantastic option. Perfect for both budget and solo travellers, they have both dorm and private rooms available and good common areas for meeting other travellers. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Los Angeles!

Have more time?

If you want to make your road trip an entire drive down the west coast of the United States, then you’re going to have to continue down south from Los Angeles to San Diego. This Southern California city has a completely different vibe to LA and there are lots of things to see and do on the drive from Los Angeles to San Diego .

Make sure to take in the sites in Orange County like Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach, the historic mission in San Juan Capistrano or even the pier in San Clemente. In San Diego County before you hit the city proper, make sure to take in the beauty of La Jolla — one of the most expensive areas in the USA.

The cliffs and scenery in this posh town is second to none and there are lots of cool shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities to enjoy.

All in all, embarking on a Seattle to San Diego road trip is one of the most epic drives that you could do in the entirety of the US!

For those who want to go a bit inland rather than staying along the coast, you can opt to drive to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco if that interests you, as well.

Alternatively, if you’re driving to Seattle, consider visiting stop of the stops on the Seattle to Vancouver drive!

Where to Stay in San Diego

Urban Boutique Hotel — A cool boutique hotel located in Little Italy, this is ideally situated to exploring the best of Downtown San Diego. They have a number of stylish and comfortable rooms and a number of amenities to make your stay fantastic. 

Private Rental — A private holiday rental is a very popular option in San Diego. There are tons of great properties available, like this charming studio in Pacific Beach right on the oceanfront.

California Dreams Hostel   — Located in the cool, hip area of Pacific Beach, this hostel is a great option if you’re trying to stick to a tighter budget while on your road trip. Perfect for both budget and solo travellers, they have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas and self-catering facilities. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in San Diego!

Planning a Seattle to LA drive is one of the best ways to see the highlights and beauty of the American West. Taking you through countless different landscapes and incredible towns and cities, there really is no other road trip quite like it.

Are you planning on driving between Seattle and Los Angeles? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

What are your thoughts on doing this trip in Feb?

February is a great time of year – just know that it will get chillier the further north you go 🙂

Hi. Thank you so much for all the information. I’m from Shreveport LA ( But don’t hold that against me). My girlfriend and I are planning to make this trip between Seattle Washington and San Diego California between the 2nd September through the 10th is through the 10th of September. Planning This is daunting. We are somewhat on a budget as far as hotel stays what would you estimate the cost would be asked would be for hotel stays during this 8 or 9 day. And where would you stay

We are planning a west coast trip from Seattle to Los Angeles in late September to October 2022, about 21 nights – was thinking of going via San Francisco on route also to Olympic Park, Oregon , Portland, Florence or Crater Lake – Redwood, Nappa Valley, Monterey/Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Barbara and maybe Yosemite or Death Valley, though not sure how many nights to stay in each, was thinking of 3 in Seattle, San Francisco and LA but not sure if they are enough or could combine some of the other places, what do you suggest. Cheers

It is an interesting itinerary. However, at our age of early 70s, is driving from Seattle to LA possible ? Plus we are in a country of right-hand drive? I have been driving for years (50 years) and has driven in Australia, Hong Kong (long time ago) but not in USA. Would like to concentrate on coastal drive and avoid cities like San Francisco and San Diego – had been there many years old.

Would love to hear your comments if possible.

Appreciate very much!

Thanks & cheers Sue

Hi Sue, it really depends on your comfort level with driving whether you feel confident doing this road trip. I will say that the driving conditions are generally fine, with perhaps the exception of the Los Angeles area. Having driven both left- and right-hand drive throughout the world, it isn’t all that difficult to adapt to surprisingly! Especially if there are other motorists on the road whose lead you can follow.

Hi we are coming from the uk to do Seattle to la but only have 9 days on the road. We’re doing the coast road so do u think that will be ok time wise? There’s 2 of us driving Thanks nick

Hi Nick, 9 days should be enough, however, I wouldn’t expect to make all of these stops and plan for a couple of days with longer driving times. Just prioritise what you want to visit and you should have a great time!

We are doing the trip from Seattle to San Diego , 🤩

Hope you have a great time!

Hi Rene I have booked 3 nights Seattle 3 nights Anaheim ca And 3 nights San Diego ca I am driving the pch only have 14 days which leaves me 5 days left my plans are not to stay in Napa or San Francisco any suggestions would be appreciated

Hi, I’m planning a round trip road trip from LA to Portland orWashington at the end of july. July 27- Aug 7. What car rental do you recommend? I arrive at Union Station at 6 am in La, maybe picking the rental car at the airport since it is cheaper.

I am coming all the way from Texas.Taking the train from Texas to LA then renting a car to drive up the coast then back down, to take the train back to Texas.

Do you have any additional suggestions?

Sounds like you’ve got a great trip planned! I would recommend browsing RentalCars.com to find the best deal on a car rental – you may find a good option from Union Station there Hope you have a great time!

Hi Rene, I’ll be driving from LA to Seattle in a couple weeks. Now that you’ve made a similar trip, I’m wondering if you have any additional must-sees or things you wished you knew before your trip?

I’m making this same trip next week with my husband and dog.having done this trip, do you have any tips? Suggestions? Regrets?

I would stay in Mendocino over a Fort Bragg, but that’s just me! It’s only a few more miles south. Macallum House, Mendocino Hotel or renting an AirBnB or camping are all great options.

Thanks for the tip, Whitney!

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12 Scenic Stops On A Road Trip From Los Angeles To Seattle

From gorgeous cityscapes to breathtaking and historical landmarks, travelers will love these scenic road trip stops from LA to Seattle!

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More Stops To Make On The Ultimate LA to Seattle Road Trip!

• Experience the West Coast from LA to Seattle with a scenic road trip filled with natural wonders and charming towns.
• Take your time driving for a 18-hour journey with beautiful stops in Oregon, including must-see parks and coastal views.
• Explore iconic landmarks and stunning landscapes on the way to Seattle, a city known for its outdoor adventures and coffee culture.

Planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle? One of the best drives that travelers can take with scenic stops is along the West Coast between L.A. and Seattle, with Oregon on the charming side. While the Coast Starlight train from LA to Seattle offers a scenic, bucket-list journey , driving in a private car gives travelers more freedom and time to make scenic stops and take their time to enjoy sightseeing.

The road trip will take almost 18 hours (1,134 miles) via Interstate 5 North-South Route. In Los Angeles, travelers will already enjoy the diversity the area offers, especially since it's a mecca of the country's film and television industry. Along the way, Oregon is also dotted with beautiful hiking trails through dense evergreen forests. The endpoint, Seattle, UNESCO's City of Literature , beams with a wealth of outdoor excursions, a marvelous coffee culture, and a gorgeous coastal setting.

For those intending to make this bucket list West Coast road trip itinerary, here are a number of scenic stops from Los Angeles to Seattle, along with some short detours to see more of the natural world on this stunning side of the United States.

UPDATE: 2024/04/25 22:08 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

This 1,134-mile Pacific Northwest road trip takes travelers from the towering redwoods of California to the tip of the Space Needle in Seattle, Washington. Why not add some more stops on the way? This list has been updated with two new stops in Oregon before reaching the final destination!

13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

12 los angeles to big sur, drive along a rugged stretch of coastline with gorgeous redwoods and historic towns.

After exploring the sprawling cityscape of Los Angeles and discovering its urban charm, drive down to Big Sur to see its picturesque rugged coastline and beautiful beaches.

Along its seaside cliffs and undulating turns, the drive to Big Sur opens up a stunning stretch of the Central Coast with beautiful state parks, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Also, don't give out a hard pass on Big Sur's must-try restaurants that serve mouthwatering local and international favorites!

• Distance to This Stop: 345.9 miles
• Average Driving Time: 5 hours and 51 minutes (via I-5 N and US-101 N)
• Major Stops: Zuma Beach , Pismo Beach , Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

11 Big Sur To Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon National Park

Stunning views of monterey bay and epic stops in santa cruz, monterey, and more.

From Big Sur's rugged coastline, a four-hour drive will take travelers to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, which are adjacent to each other. Plenty of scenic stops await travelers on this journey, especially on West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz; a three-mile walking path along the Pacific Ocean with awe-inspiring views of Monterey Bay.

In Sequoia National Park , travelers will get to explore the Giant Forest, home to the General Sherman tree , which is the most massive tree in the world. The Kings Canyon National Scenic Byway is also one of the amazing things to do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks .

• Distance to This Stop: 233.6 miles
• Average Driving Time: 4 hours and 14 minutes (via CA-152 E)
• Major Stops: West Cliff Drive , Santa Cruz Mystery Spot , Monterey

One of the most popular attractions when taking this route is a quick stop at the Santa Cruz Mystery Spot, which seems to defy gravity as the tilted road feels like it's going uphill instead of downhill.

How To Explore Sequoia National Park's Giant Forest, Home To The General Sherman Tree

10 sequoia & kings canyon national parks to yosemite national park, a scenic drive along deep canyons, sequoia trees, and majestic waterfalls.

Less than three hours of driving from the previous stop takes travelers to Yosemite National Park , America's favorite national park. Yosemite offers lots of stunning hikes and is well known for enchanting waterfalls (particularly the Firefall that looks like flowing lava when the sun hits) . The park's deep valleys and giant, ancient sequoia trees in the Sierra Nevada mountains are also not to be missed.

Among the super scenic stops along this part of the LA to Seattle road trip route is the Trail of 100 Giants Trailhead, which comes with a rest and parking area and a path that leads to the awe-inspiring towering sequoia trees. A lovely drive in these parts, too, is the Majestic Mountain Loop within these three California national parks, which offers sweeping views of the Sierras, canyons, and spectacular landscapes that travelers won't find elsewhere.

• Road Trip Length: 111.6 miles
• Average Driving Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes (via CA-180 W and CA-41 N)
• Major Stops: Trail of 100 Giants Trailhead , Moro Rock Trail , Kings Canyon National Park Scenic Byway

9 Yosemite National Park To Napa Valley

From yosemite's otherworldly landscape to napa's spectacular vineyards and scenery.

After taking in the wonders of Yosemite National Park, travelers can drive up to California's scenic wine region, Napa Valley , where they can savor some of the best wines in the world. This gorgeous portion of the road trip route from LA to Seattle winds through the wine country with sweeping views of the valley along the Tunnel View, an overlook near the park.

With Napa Valley's hundreds of hillside vineyards, one can imagine picturesque sightings along the way. The vineyards also make a great backdrop for photo ops. So, don't forget to take Instagram-worthy photos during the scenic stops!

• Distance to This Stop: 175.7 miles
• Average Driving Time: 3 hours and 40 minutes (via CA-12 W)
• Major Stops: Tunnel View, Pier 39 , Domaine Carneros

Pier 39 in San Francisco is also one of the best stops from LA to Seattle for scenery and fun; it offers beautiful views of the bay and California's sea lions, along with charming shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities.

A Napa Valley Wine Trip: What To Know And Where To Go

8 napa valley to klamath national forest, pretty ponderosa pines, majestic mountain vistas, and wonderful wineries.

Back to the wilderness! From an enjoyable wine tasting in Napa Valley, a scenic drive to Klamath National Forest is one for the books.

Travelers will still be able to pass by stunning vineyards and wineries, but as the drive gets closer to Klamath National Forest, they will be in awe of the unique wilderness and natural wonders it offers.

Enchanting rivers, botanical areas, and panoramic views of ponderosa pines and majestic mountains are a sight to behold.

• Distance to This Stop: 241.1 miles
• Average Driving Time: 4 hours and 21 minutes (via I-5 N)
• Major Stops: Hall Wines St. Helena , Castello di Amorosa , Point Reyes Lighthouse

7 Klamath National Forest To Crater Lake National Park

Oregon's bluest lake, sweeping mountain vistas, waterfalls, and volcanoes.

From the gorgeous ponderosa pines in Klamath National Forest, travelers can see Oregon's bluest lake, the Crater Lake in the Cascade Mountains. The lake has no inlets or outlets, and only relies on rain and melting snow, which makes it one of the clearest lakes in the world. For travelers hoping to get out of the car and stretch their legs, there are hiking trails in Crater Lake National Park with spectacular views .

Along the way throughout this part of the route from Los Angeles to Seattle, travelers will be in awe of the sight of numerous volcanoes, waterfalls, and mountain vistas (Mount Shasta included) on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway .

• Distance to This Stop: 102.2 miles
• Average Driving Time: 1 hour and 58 minutes (via Dead Indian Memorial Rd and Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway )
• Major Stops: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park , Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway , Trees of Mystery

6 Crater Lake National Park To Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve

Discover oregon's marble cave and enjoy the beautiful foliage en voyage.

From the gorgeous Crater Lake, drive to Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve in Cave Junction to explore the 'Marble Halls of Oregon' in the Siskiyou Mountains, which offer majestic mountain retreats . There are guided cave tours available for travelers who want to discover the enchanting marble cave, which was formed by eons of acidic water.

Several scenic stops along the way during this part of the journey also highlight Oregon's beauty and history, including the city of Ashland, which is known for its Oregon Shakespeare Festival and gorgeous themed gardens.

• Distance to This Stop: 130 miles
• Average Driving Time: 2 hours and 42 minutes (via OR-62 W)
• Major Stops: Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve , Ashland , Rogue Valley ZipLine Adventure LLC

5 Oregon Caves National Monument & Preserve To Crescent City

Smell the ocean breeze, drop by the 1856 battery point light, and fish at b street pier.

After the cave detour, Crescent City (the northernmost place in California by the Oregon border) is a perfect stop for a small coastal town experience and to breathe fresh ocean air.

With a crescent-shaped stretch of sandy beach (hence the name), Crescent City is home to the historic 1856 Battery Point Light, which entered the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

For those who love fishing, the city's B Street Pier is a popular spot to drop their fishing line, or simply take scenic walks to enjoy the views of the bay.

• Distance to This Stop: 72.4 miles
• Average Driving Time: 1 hour and 49 minutes (via OR-46 W and US-199 S)
• Major Stops: 1856 Battery Point Light , Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park , B Street Pier

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is also a must-visit destination in Crescent City to see the giant redwood trees towering in the park.

4 Crescent City To Cannon Beach

Among the most beautiful west coast beaches with epic rock formations, including haystack rock.

Another coastal gem from Crescent City, Cannon Beach is easily one of the most scenic road trip stops between LA and Seattle. Located in Northwest Oregon, it's popular for its long, sandy shore and amazing rock formations, including the iconic Haystack Rock; a 235-foot-tall monolithic rock accessible on foot at low tide.

There's plenty to do at Cannon Beach to spend a decent amount of time here en route; plus, after sightseeing, travelers can also drop by the nearby downtown area, which is dotted with charming boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

• Average Driving Time: 1 hour 49 minutes (via OR-46 W and US-199 S)
• Major Stops: Ecola State Park , Arcadia Beach , Hug Point

10 Least Crowded, But Still Scenic Towns To Visit In Oregon

3 cannon beach to portland, spend at least a few days in the weirdest city in the pacific northwest.

The weird, wonderful, and scenic city of Portland, Oregon, is the next stop on our way north to Washington State. Portland sits on the Willamette River and Columbia River just south of the Washington/Oregon border and boasts spectacular skyline views, craft beers, and fun culinary experiences.

Portland is filled with nothing but charm, nature, and weird vibes. Travelers can easily spend a day or two exploring the streets and surrounding scenery, like Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge. It's highly recommended to do this leg of the trip during the fall to experience Portland's unique fall activities and gorgeous foliage!

• Distance to This Stop: 78.9 miles
• Average Driving Time: 1 hour 32 minutes (via US-26 E)
• Major Stops: Seaside, Clatsop State Forest , Tillamook State Forest

2 Portland To Astoria

This charming waterfront town is the perfect gateway to washington state.

Astoria is a small but fascinating hidden gem that everyone should visit on their Los Angeles to Seattle road trip. Astoria sits at the Northwestern tip of Oregon and features a magnificent bridge that crosses the state border and ultimately connects Washington and Oregon.

This charming town can easily be explored in less than a day! Travelers should climb the Astoria Column for sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, explore the historic downtown and its unique shops and cafés, and walk along the Astoria Riverwalk to enjoy the waterfront. Astoria is the perfect last stop in Oregon before reaching Washington State for the last leg of the road trip.

• Distance to This Stop: 97.6 miles
• Average Driving Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (via I-5 N and US-30 W)
• Major Stops: Vancouver, St. Helens, Longview, Sunset Beach

1 Astoria To Seattle

See the beautiful cityscape at the space needle and visit pike place market for souvenirs.

From the coastal breeze of Astoria, the last stop of this ultimate West Coast road trip is Seattle, which is home to the historic Pike Place Market . There are also numerous beautiful hiking trails near Seattle for travelers who love the outdoors, enabling them to explore the outskirts of the city and its stunning scenery on foot.

In the city, however, Seattle's most iconic landmark, the 605-foot-tall Space Needle , is a must-visit attraction for jaw-dropping vistas of the cityscape, the surrounding mountains, and Puget Sound. It also has a rotating restaurant serving mouthwatering Pacific Northwest cuisine!

• Distance to This Stop: 181 miles
• Average Driving Time: 3 hours 8 minutes (via I-5 N)
• Major Stops: Pike Place Market , Space Needle , Seattle Aquarium

Road Trip From Los Angeles to Seattle | Road Trip USA

• California / In the City / Los Angeles / North America / Oregon / Outdoors / Portland / Seattle / USA / Washington

A couple weeks ago, we took a road trip from LA to Seattle as part of reliving a childhood road trip.

Along the way there are so many amazing stops to make that can become an entire trip in itself. Not to mention all the detours you could take to some of our favorite spots in the US.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: June 23, 2020

Road Trip from Los Angeles to Seattle

This is the year of  road trips  for us. We’ve taken some pretty epic cross-country road trips over the past two years. Three of them were Atlanta to Los Angeles. Now that we’ve done so many, it’s hard to believe, but it no longer seems like such a long drive.

Our all time favorite road trip was when we drove along the southern border of the US to San Diego, up to Seattle, then beelined it diagonally across the US back to Atlanta. It took us a month and a half, and I still feel like there’s a lot that we missed in between!

There really is so much beauty just within the States that we have yet to explore. I think we need to take a full year off and just rent an RV. ;)

To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the best stops and some of their highlights. If you plan on spending more time in any of the locations, or want to see what else there is to do there, be sure to click through to our more details guides.

• Best Stops from Los Angels to Seattle
• Best Detours to Take
• Essential Tips for First Timers

More Resources

Best stops from los angeles to seattle, 1. los angeles, ca.

Recommended Time: 3-4 Days Things You Can’t Miss:  Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach, Silver Lake What to Eat:  49 Fave Places to Eat in LA Where to Stay:  Beverly Hills Hotel ,  The Peninsula Beverly Hills ,  Kimpton Hotel Palomar Los Angeles

Whether you live in LA or you’re just starting your trip there, be sure to take a chance to see the city. Whether you’re into beaches, views, art, or shopping, there really is something for everyone. Here are a few guides to help you get started:

• 101 Things To Do in LA
• 49 Best Places to Eat in LA
• 25 Best Instagram Spots in LA

Pro Tip: Since the city is so large, it’s best to focus on a specific neighborhood/area during your visit so it’s not too overwhelming.

More: 101 Things To Do in LA

2. San Francisco, CA

Recommended Time: 3-4 Days Things You Can’t Miss: Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, 49-Mile Scenic Drive What to Eat:  Brenda’s French Soul Food, Tartine Bakery & Cafe, B Patisserie Where to Stay:  Golden Gate Hotel (luxury) ,  Parker Guest House (mid-range) ,  Beresford Arms (budget) ,  Search Airbnbs Nearby

We love visiting San Francisco. It’s a city we’ve considered moving to but still haven’t gotten around to it. We spend most our time in the city eating and exploring the surrounding outdoor areas.

• The Ultimate SF Bucket List (101 Things to do in San Francisco)
• 25 Free Things to do in San Francisco

Pro Tip: There aren’t many stops between LA to SF on the 5, but you should stop by Harris Ranch. You can get some delicious steaks and pecan drop cookies.

More: The Ultimate SF Bucket List (101 Things to do in San Francisco)

3. Mount Shasta, CA

Weed, CA, map

Recommended Time: 1-2 Hours What to Eat: Lily’s , Phuket Thai Cuisine , Bistro No 107 Where to Stay: Mount Shasta Resort (mid-range), Inn at Mt Shasta CA (mid-range), Swiss Holiday Lodge  (budget)

This is a quick stop worth making just because of how awesome Shasta looks in the horizon. We pulled off at a rest area to picnic and enjoy the views.

Pro Tip: If you want to drive closer to the mountain, take the Lake Street exit at Mount Shasta and head east.

More: Where to see Mt Shasta

4. Crater Lake National Park, OR

Recommended Time: 2-3 Days Things You Can’t Miss: Discovery Point, Watchman Overlook, Sun Notch Hike What to Eat: Annie Creek Restaurant , Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room , Beckie’s Cafe Where to Stay: Union Creek Resort , Crater Lake Inn & Retreat , Sleep Inn & Suites

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the US and is absolutely beautiful. We’ve only visited during winter so we had very limited access, but we definitely want to visit again. Check out our guide to help you plan your time there.

Pro Tip: If you’re making this drive during winter, check the road conditions. Much of the park is closed.

More: The Ultimate Guide to Crater Lake National Park

5. Portland, OR

100 SW Main St #1100, Portland, OR 97204, map

Recommended Time: 2-3 Days Things You Can’t Miss: Pittock Mansion , Portland Breweries , Columbia River Gorge What to Eat: 49 Best Places to Eat in Portland Oregon Where to Stay: Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel (luxury), The Heathman Hotel, Downtown (mid-range), The Society Hotel (budget)

Beautiful PNW hikes, tons of restaurants, and breweries around every corner will easily keep you busy for a few days. The city is small so you can see a lot in a short amount of time.

• Ultimate Portland Bucket List
• 49 Best Places to Eat in Portland Oregon
• 25 Most Popular Spots to Instagram Portland Oregon
• 25 Free Things to Do in Portland
• Where to Find the Best Views in Portland Oregon

Pro Tip: Portland weather can be quite rainy and wet, be sure you are prepped. Check out our How to Dress in Portland guide.

More: The Ultimate Portland Bucket List

6. Seattle, WA

Recommended Time: 3-4 Days Things You Can’t Miss: Pike Place Market,  Chihuly Glass Sculpture Museum , Gasworks Park What to Eat:  Chuck’s Hop Shop, Tsukushinbo, Taylor Shellfish Farms Where to Stay: Four Seasons (luxury), The Maxwell Hotel (mid-range), AC Hotel (budget)

You’ve made it to Seattle! See the popular spots like Pike’s Place and The Space Needle, but also spend time exploring some of the other neighborhoods and easy day trips.  

• 101 Things to do in Seattle
• 2-3 Day Guide – Weekend in Seattle Itinerary
• 11 Amazing Museums in Seattle
• 15 Best Day Trips from Seattle
• 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Pro Tip: Seattle is also a great launching point to see Olympic National Park .

More: Ultimate Seattle Bucket List

Detours to Take

We tried to take the most direct route, but if you have some time and want to make a few detours, here are some worthwhile ones:

• Big Sur  (after LA)
• Yosemite National Park  (after Big Sur)
• Redwood National Park (after SF)
• Smith Rock State Park  (after Crater Lake)
• Columbia River Gorge  (after Portland)
• Olympic National Park  (after Seattle)

If you have more than 2 weeks, we even suggest you cut over to the  Pacific Coast Highway  and do the stretch from Big Sur in California all the way up to Reedsport in Oregon before going back onto I-5 (to Portland). These are some great stops on coast:

• Samuel H Boardman

If you don’t mind skipping Portland, we recommend doing the entire Oregon Coast drive. Check out  our guide to all 363 miles of Oregon Coast!

After Seattle, for our next adventure, we took the Edmonds-Kingston ferry to get from Seattle to Olympic National Park. First time on a car ferry! See our next adventure:  what to see at Olympic National Park .

Essential Tips

• Make a plan but give yourself some flexibility. Whether it’s because you run into trouble or decide you love a place more than you thought you would, it’s always smart to be able to change your plans as needed.
• It’s important to wear sunblock even when you’re just in the car all day. A lot of the time, you’ll have sun shining right on you for hours at a time.
• Have a physical map with you in the car just in case you lose service.
• If you plan on visiting multiple National Parks, pick up an annual pass to save money.
• If you’re worried about bathroom stops, these come in really handy!
• A cooler is convenient to have for snacks and drinks in the car.
• Rand McNally Large Scale Road Atlas
• Lonely Planet Southwest’s Best Trips
• Lonely Planet Southwest USA Travel Guide
• Southwest Road Trips
• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Portland
• Lonely Planet Pacific Northwest’s Best Trips
• Lonely Planet Washington, Oregon & Pacific Northwest Guide

What’s an epic road trip you’ve taken? What were your fave stops? What road trips do you want to take?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

See more city bucket lists.

ALL THE BEST STOPS ALONG THE OREGON COAST

THE ULTIMATE NEVADA ROAD TRIP

EPIC ROAD TRIP THROUGH BIG SUR

ULTIMATE EASTERN OREGON ROAD TRIP

ICELAND WINTER ROAD TRIP GUIDE

21 GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIPS

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Ultimate Seattle Bucket List (101 Things to Do in Seattle WA)

This post has 8 comments.

Hey guys! We are about to take on our own adventure this summer from San Diego to Washington (possibly go into Canada too!) the goal is to checkout cities, nature, hidden gems, and we have three months, 1 truck, 3 chihuahuas along the route. Any suggestions you may not have mentioned in this post? Or perhaps other articles you have already written would be super useful! Actually any resources at all would be amazing! ps: Maybe we can even meet you guys when we make it to Portland?

Hi Cami! That’s so exciting! Wow, this is a bit of an older post, so I definitely need to update it soon. These are some suggestions off the top of my head, but we really need to sit down and do a guide for each state soon. We recently did the entire Oregon coast, which had so many amazing spots if you want to check that out http://localadventurer.com/ultimate-oregon-coast-road-trip/ . I would also check out the gorge if you’re swinging through Portland. If you didn’t already know, there are over 250 waterfalls in Oregon, so I would stop by any of them that are on your route http://localadventurer.com/list-of-waterfalls-in-oregon/ . If you’re going up the California coast, I would also stop in at Point Reyes, Fort Bragg for the Glass Beach. There’s a tree tunnel just north of there too. In Washington, I’d do Olympic and Cape Flattery. There are just so many things to do, but 3 months is a good amount of time where I feel like you’ll be able to see a lot. Also, Erin and Caroline recently wrote a post about long term travel with dogs ( http://localadventurer.com/how-to-travel-with-a-dog-essential-dog-travel-tips/ ). Hope that helps and let us know when you’re coming to Portland.

Hi. I was researching on some tips and ways on how to plan a long drive (not a typical road trip) from Los Angeles to Tacoma, WA. My husband is in the military and assigned there. We are going 2nd week of June. This will be our first time going on a long drive/trip. I am just concern with the long hours of drive because we are traveling with our 8 years old son. Since we are not in such a hurry in getting to Washington. I am thinking of making a several stop to sleep and rest in a motel/inn. We are not looking for some leisure road trip or wanting to go to some tourist spot to visit. Our goal is to go safely to Washington. I hope you could help us in finding some great pit stops and what route should we take. Thank you in advance.

Hi Sheryll! Sounds like it’s going to be a fun trip. There are a lot of good stops along the way. Some of our favs are: Big Sur, SF, Samuel H Boardman, Cannon Beach, Portland. Hope that helps!

thank you so much for all the information. i’m planing to go the same way you did. i really like it, and you explained everything in details . Good job. :)

You are so welcome! Hope you have a wonderful trip!

i clicked on the donut shop link you mentioned and my mouth began to salivate. those donuts look delicious!

i really like that waterfall photo. that’s in america? didn’t know america could look so beautiful.

yeah, i’ve been realizing that the more i travel, the more i appreciate what we have in the states. we actually have a lot of different types of landscapes all in one country, and that’s why we’ve been spending most our time this year exploring the states. i don’t even think we have time to hit all the national parks that we want to go to this year. i thought atlanta was really boring until we actually left it, and it made me realize that i took a lot of things for granted. i used to think the grass is always greener on the other side. there are bigger and better things somewhere else.. I still really like this quote “Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust

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• Itineraries

Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip

West coast road trip: los angeles to seattle road trip.

Discover the beautiful West Coast from California to the Pacific Northwest. We’ve packed this adventure with dramatic coastlines and national forests. On this trip, you will travel through three states, beginning in Los Angeles, California, and ending in Seattle, WA.

Driving from LA to Seattle is a must. You will travel from Big Sur to Crater Lake, to Portland and Seattle for a mix of cities, outdoor fun, and beautiful scenery. Enjoy the rugged beauty and waterfront views.

Planning a trip can be stressful. To help get you started, we’ve assembled the ultimate, 8-day Los Angeles to Seattle, WA drive.

Los Angeles to Seattle Distance

You might be wondering, how far is Seattle from LA? Your unforgettable adventure begins at the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles, CA. The distance from Seattle to LA is 2,625 miles.

Driving along California’s beautiful coast, then through Oregon and Washington, this trip would take about 43 hours without any breaks. To make the most of your journey, we recommend allotting at least eight days to complete this Pacific Northwest road trip .

Los Angeles to Seattle drive time: 8 days, driving 43 hours

Los Angeles to Seattle miles: 2,625 miles

Best Time of Year for a LA to Seattle Drive

Driving to Seattle from Los Angeles is best enjoyed in late spring or early fall. These are the two best times to visit all the destinations on this trip. Enjoy perfect temperatures without summer crowds, and don’t worry about closed campgrounds or trails on your road trip from Los Angeles to Seattle, Washington.

Late spring is a great choice for most destinations on this route, as you’ll enjoy warm temperatures without overwhelming crowds. Portland and Seattle are rainy at the start of the season. By May, cherry blossoms and wildflowers bloom, making the parks green and beautiful.

In California, spring is a good time to see the Redwoods and watch whales along the coast of Big Sur . Temperatures in San Francisco are also mild during the spring, and the rainfall isn’t as frequent as it is during the winter.

Crater Lake and Mount Rainier National Parks are cold and usually draped in snow for most of the spring. However, by the end of the season, temperatures have warmed up and are perfect for long days of exploring both parks.

Summer brings warm, pleasant temperatures for nearly all the stops on this itinerary. All national park campgrounds and trails will be open and easily accessible. During peak season, there are lots of people and it’s hard to find campsites. Plan your summer road trip early to avoid problems.

Early fall means warm summer temperatures but with a fraction of the crowds. September to mid-October has great weather for hiking and beautiful fall colors in the Pacific Northwest. This is also the warmest season in San Francisco, and the city’s crowds diminish compared to the summer months.

Washington and Oregon will experience increased rainfall and lower temperatures as the season progresses. We r recommended that travelers avoid these states after November.

Unless you’re seeking a trip filled with rain and snow, we advise avoiding a winter road trip to the Pacific Northwest. In Mount Rainier, most of the park is closed off to vehicle traffic during the winter, so the park is only an option if you’re snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Most other destinations on this itinerary are quite cold and rainy during the winter. In Big Sur, dramatic storms often cause mudslides and can limit road access, making driving from Los Angeles to Seattle Washington difficult in the winter.

However, if you’re looking for a winter wonderland, you’ll love Crater Lake National Park during the off-season. The park remains open all year, and snowfall reaches an average of 40 feet, making it one of the snowiest places in the country. Crater Lake is also one of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights.

Preparation for your Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip

Between traveling through three states, long periods on the road, and ever-changing landscapes, your journey up to Washington requires a fair bit of planning and preparation. Before setting off on your Los Angeles to Seattle road trip, take some time to reserve your campsites, gather your necessary supplies, and choose the ideal camper van for your adventure!

Campground Reservations: Campgrounds throughout this route are popular during the summer and can fill up quickly, so aim to reserve your sites well in advance. Even during the shoulder season, it’s a good idea to book ahead whenever you can. That way, it’s one less thing you need to worry about during your trip!

Dispersed Camping: While most campgrounds on this itinerary operate all year, Mount Rainier and Crater Lake’s campsites are usually only open from May through October. If you’re planning to travel off-season or you just can’t find available sites, look into the dispersed or free camping options near each stop.

The cities throughout this itinerary should be easy to navigate while using your Smartphone as a GPS, and cell reception will be relatively reliable throughout this route. However, we recommend picking up a free paper map at each national park you visit. In some park areas, there may be little reception. Having a map when going to remote trailheads or campgrounds is a lifesaver in a pinch.

Gear and Supplies

Food: Our camper vans come equipped with kitchenettes, so all you need to do is stock up on ingredients for quick, easy-to-make meals! You’ll also need to load up on water since not all campgrounds you’ll encounter provide potable water. Head to one of the grocery stores near our Los Angeles location to ensure you have everything you need before hitting the road.

Supplies: Our extra add-ons ensure you have all the gear you need to make your trip seamless. Add an extra kitchen kit to make campground meals easier and an extra bedding kit since evenings along the coast and up north can be chilly, even in the summer. A national park pass is another essential because you’ll be entering three national parks during this trip.

Sun Protection: Sunscreen is also important to have on hand, as you’ll be spending most of your time outside. This is especially crucial in Mount Rainier, where the sun is powerful because of the park’s high elevation.

Which Camper Van is Best for a Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip?

Escape Camper Vans offers a range of five different vehicle models to choose from, which are available from our Los Angeles location. Our two largest models are the Del Mar and Mesa, followed by the Mavericks. These all sleep up to five people with a rooftop sleeper and include comfortable queen-size beds and kitchenettes.

Los Angeles to the Pacific Northwest Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of the West Coast. This epic 8-day road trip takes you through three states, spanning 2,625 miles of scenic coastline, towering forests, and vibrant cities. Begin your adventure by winding along California’s rugged Big Sur coast, then venture north to marvel at the towering redwoods of Northern California. Explore the eclectic city of Portland before reaching the iconic skyline of Seattle.

Along the way, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Mount Rainier and Crater Lake National Parks, where stunning vistas and outdoor adventures await. With carefully curated stops, diverse activities, and essential tips for camper van travel, this itinerary promises an unforgettable exploration of the Pacific Northwest.

Day 1- Los Angeles to Big Sur, California

Your journey to the Pacific Northwest begins at the Escape Camper Vans in Los Angeles . After loading up your van with all your gear and supplies, it’s time to make your way towards Big Sur , the 90-mile stretch along central California’s rugged coastline.

Today is as much about the journey as the destination, with the drive along Highway 1 being a jaw-dropping experience. This winding coastal road is one of California’s most scenic drives and offers travelers numerous pit stops, overlooks, and iconic landmarks. One of the most famous sites is Bixby Bridge, which offers unparalleled views of Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs.

Things to do in Big Sur, CA

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park- Spread along Big Sur’s picturesque coastline, this stunning park provides spectacular views and numerous forested trails. The park’s main draw is McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades straight into the Pacific Ocean.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve- Just north of Big Sur in Monterey, Point Lobos sits along the coast and is a premier area for spotting whales, seals, and other marine wildlife. The reserve also contains numerous hiking trails and the fascinating Whalers Cabin Museum.

Pfeiffer Beach – This is one of Big Sur’s most popular beaches, largely due to its unique purple sand caused by Manganese garnet rocks that have fallen from the cliffs. The beach’s other crowd-pleaser is the Keyhole Arch, a massive rock formation over the water. The giant rock features a natural arch, which allows waves to crash through, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Places to Eat near Big Sur, CA

Big Sur Taphouse: This laid-back taproom is perfect for unwinding with a draft beer and filling meal while enjoying a scenic outdoor setting.

Deetjen’s Restaurant : With a fascinating history dating back to the 1930s and an English-style decor that has remained mostly unchanged over the past seventy years, this charming restaurant is unlike any other in the area. Delicious, home-cooked meals are served in one of four candlelit rooms, creating an especially alluring ambiance while you dine.

Campgrounds near Big Sur, CA

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground : This scenic campground is open year-round, and reservations can be made up to six months in advance. It is Big Sur’s most popular campsite, so try to book as early as possible. Amenities include coin-operated hot showers and a dump station.

Riverside Campground: Nestled in a serene forest beside the Big Sur River, this idyllic site features picnic tables, fire pits, laundry facilities, and a convenient camp store. Reservations must be made on their website, which operates all year.

Day 2- San Francisco, California

Today, load up your camper van once again as you head back down to California, this time making your way to the vibrant city of San Francisco . The drive from Big Sur will take about two hours.

Explore the biggest and oldest Chinatown in the country, or step back in time to the 1960’s as you wander through Haight-Ashbury . If you’re missing the nature of the Pacific Northwest, you can also head to one of the city’s many parks.

Things to do in San Francisco

Walk over the Golden Gate Bridge—One of the best things to do in San Francisco is to walk across the city’s iconic 1.7-mile bridge. Both sides of the bridge contain stunning viewpoints, perfect for snapping postcard-worthy photos.

Fisherman’s Wharf- Located along the water, take in views of the bay while popping into this lively neighborhood’s many artisan shops, museums, and restaurants.

Painted Ladies- Full House fans looking for a nostalgic outing should head to Alamo Park, where you’ll have a perfect viewpoint of the pastel-colored homes famously featured on the beloved 90’s sitcom.

Places to Eat in San Francisco

La Taqueria: Burritos are an essential part of any visit to San Francisco, and this casual eatery is the place to order them. Opened in 1990 and found in the center of the Mission District, this is one of the city’s most popular spots for authentic burritos and tacos.

HK Lounge Bistro: San Francisco is brimming with delicious dim sum, and this Michelin-listed restaurant is one of the best in the city. The cozy locale is known for its authentic cuisine and small size, so reservations are recommended.

Campgrounds near San Francisco

Francis Beach Campground: Located in Half Moon Bay State Park, this beachfront campground does not require reservations, though they are highly encouraged. This year-round site does not offer sewer or electric hookups. However, it does contain showers, a dump station, and drinking water.

Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground : Fall asleep under a forest of redwoods at this scenic site just north of San Francisco. Reservations are recommended for this year-round campground, and facilities include hot showers and potable water but no hookups.

Day 3- Redwood National and State Parks

Today, continue making your way up California’s dramatic coastline before reaching the spectacular Redwood National and State Parks. Divided between three state parks and one national park, the redwoods are home to the world’s tallest trees and offer ample opportunities to walk among these spectacular giants. Explore enchanting redwood groves, mystifying canyons, and jaw-dropping hikes while immersed in this prehistoric wonderland.

Things to do in Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon —On this breathtaking trail, a serene creek is lined by imposing canyons draped in verdant ferns. Visitors must have permits to visit during the high season. Plan accordingly if you \ visit from May to September.

Tall Trees Grove Hike – This challenging hike takes you 800 feet down to Redwood Creek, and the trek is about 4.5 miles roundtrip. This secluded trail only allows 50 parties per day, and you must obtain reservations in advance.

Boy Scout Tree Trail —This 5.5-mile trail, located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, takes you through a stunning grove of ancient redwoods.

Places to Eat near Redwood National Park

Moonstone Grill : This upscale eatery offers a decadent meal while admiring phenomenal ocean views. In addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list, the menu features a mix of small plates, fresh seafood, and grilled dishes.

Cafe Brio: This casual eatery offers a wide selection of breakfast, lunch, and brunch items. They source their produce from nearby farmers and prepare all meals and pastries in-house.

Campgrounds near Redwood National Park

Jedediah Smith Campground : Nestled in a stunning old-growth redwood grove, this year-round site is the northernmost campground of all the parks. Facilities include coin-operated showers, potable water, and food storage lockers.

Elk Prairie Campground : This scenic campground operates annually, though reservations are only necessary from May until October. The site features showers, potable water, and several nearby hiking trails.

Day 4- Crater Lake National Park

Take one more glimpse of the imposing Redwood trees before driving to Crater Lake National Park . Formed by a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in North America, reaching a depth of nearly 2,000 feet.

The best way to get acquainted with the park and admire the deep blue hue of this striking body of water is to ride along Rim Drive . As you drive, you’ll encounter many classic overlooks, impressive vantage points, and popular trailheads.

Things to do in Crater Lake National Park

Boat Trip on the Lake- Get a closer look at the crystal blue waters of Crater Lake by hopping on a daily boat tour. Tours usually last about two hours, and there’s often a park ranger on board, so it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the park. You can also opt for a tour to Wizard Island , a 763-foot cinder cone in the middle of the lake.

Cleetwood Cove Trail – This steep, 1.1-mile trail is the only hike that leads directly to Crater Lake’s shore. Once you reach the water, you can jump into the clear blue lake to admire the panoramic views of the park from a brand-new perspective.

Garfield Peak Trail – This popular hike takes you along the south rim of Crater Lake and provides some of the best views of Mount Rainier in the entire park. While only 3.5 miles roundtrip, the hike is quite steep and moderately strenuous.

Places to Eat near Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake Lodge Dining : This lakefront restaurant is the best option inside the park for an elevated meal with exquisite views.

Beckie’s Cafe : This historic eatery has been in business since 1926 and is renowned for its hearty, home-style meals. Save some room for dessert, as their homemade pies are especially popular.

Campgrounds in Crater Lake National Park

Mazama Campground : Situated inside the park, this scenic campground only operates during the summer. Reservations become mandatory for the entire campground beginning in July. Coin-operated showers, laundry facilities, potable water, and food storage lockers are all available.

Diamond Lake Campground : This lovely lakefront campground near the park entrance features showers, picnic tables, potable water, and grills. The site typically operates from June until September, and reservations are required.

Day 5- Portland, Oregon

Enjoy an early breakfast at your campground before exploring Oregon’s diverse scenery . After about five hours of driving through the Pacific Northwest state, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Portland . Portland is renowned for seamlessly blending a thriving urban metropolis with verdant forests and outdoor excursions. Discover Portland’s lively downtown areas, try local beers at one of the many breweries, or go for a hike.

Mt Hood at Sunset with Portland City Center

Things to do in Portland, OR

Powell’s Books- Spanning an entire city block, this is the world’s largest used and new bookstore and a quintessential stop on any visit to Portland. Nestled in the lively Pearl District, continue exploring downtown, brimming with local shops, breweries, and entertainment after your visit.

Forest Park- This enormous urban park features numerous trails, wildlife, and historic sites like Pittock Mansion. This is a perfect solution if you’re craving some nature without leaving the city.

Multnomah Falls —Only a thirty-minute drive from Portland, this is one of the tallest year-round waterfalls in the country and one of the most visited sites in the Pacific Northwest.

Pro Tip – If you have extra time or you’re missing the coast, head to Cannon Beach to marvel at Haystack Rock. Just an hour and a half from Portland, this 235-foot tall rock formation by the shore is stunning, especially at sunset.

Places to Eat in Portland, OR

Hinterland Bar & Food Carts: Food cart pods are a great way to sample a variety of the city’s best cuisine in one place.

Oma’s Hideaway : This popular neighborhood eatery serves creative dishes inspired by the street foods of Singapore and Malaysia in a fun, colorful setting.

Campgrounds near Portland, OR

Champoeg State Park Campground : This campground near Portland has hot showers, full hookups, a dump station, and many hiking trails. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, though they are not required.

Cape Lookout State Park : If you decide to venture to Cannon Beach, this nearby campsite is open all year and can be reserved up to six months in advance. The scenic campground is within walking distance of the ocean and features hot showers, full hookups, and a dump station.

Day 6- Mount Rainier National Park

Just an hour and forty-five minutes south of Seattle, you’ll find the jaw-dropping Mount Rainier National Park . Not only is Mount Rainier the tallest mountain in Washington, but it’s also an active volcano!

Hiking to the summit of Mount Rainier requires a permit and at least a couple of days to complete. However, if you’re not up for such a strenuous climb, there’s still plenty to enjoy in the park.

Mount Rainier is divided into five sections, with Paradise being the most p opular . Located along the park’s southern end, it offers numerous hiking trails, picturesque viewpoints, and a visitor center.

Things to do in Mount Rainier National Park

Skyline Trail to Panorama Point – This popular 5.4-mile hike offers some of the best views of Mount Rainier in the entire park. The trail begins in Paradise and takes you past the glorious Myrtle Falls before summiting at Panorama Point.

Reflections Lakes —Accessed by several different trails, this breathtaking area is celebrated for the impressive reflection of Mount Rainier in its lakes. This beautiful spot is popular for photos in the park. It looks amazing at sunrise or sunset. Remember that you cannot swim or fish in the lakes.

Hike to Mt. Fremont Fire Lookout – This spectacular hike is about 6 miles long and weaves through breathtaking scenery before arriving at a fire lookout that dates back to the 1930’s. Once you arrive at the historic structure, you will see magnificent views of Mount Rainier.

Places to Eat near Mount Rainier National Park

Summit House Restaurant: Getting to this mountaintop restaurant is an experience that is only accessible by hopping on the Mount Rainier Gondola. Take in jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier from Seattle’s highest-elevation restaurant while enjoying a delicious meal.

Ukrainian Cuisine Restaurant : Located in Paradise Village, this charming eatery serves classic Ukrainian dishes. Stop by for a delicious pastry and coffee in the mornings before setting off for a day of exploring.

Campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park

Cougar Rock Campground : This popular campground inside the park usually runs from late May until early October and is conveniently located close to Paradise. Reservations can be made online, and amenities include flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.

Ohanapecosh Campground : Located in the Southeast section of Mount Rainier, this campground typically operates from late May until early October. The site features potable water, flush toilets, and access to many wonderful hikes.

Day 7- Seattle, Washington

After you leave Mount Rainier National Park, head to Seattle, Washington , which is just two and a half hours away. Surrounded by snowy mountains, green forests, and calm waters, this busy city has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Keep your camper van parked for the day as you explore the city’s neighborhoods and iconic landmarks on foot. To see Seattle’s beautiful city view, take a ferry ride on the Puget Sound . Enjoy the impressive skyline from the water.

Things to do in Seattle, WA

Pike Place Market- Founded in 1907, Seattle’s famous market is one of the oldest and biggest in the country. Walk around and see many vendors selling food and crafts. Eat at one of the market’s restaurants or get coffee from the original Starbucks.

The Space Needle- This legendary observation deck was built in 1962 for the World’s Fair and has been a symbol of Seattle ever since. Head up to the top, where you can admire the city from 605 feet above ground, standing on a glass revolving floor.

Discovery Park- Situated along Puget Sound, spending an afternoon picnicking or hiking through the city’s largest park is one of Seattle’s best things to do. The park’s West Point Lighthouse is also well worth a visit, and the surrounding beaches are stunning.

Places to Eat in Seattle, WA

The Walrus & The Carpenter: Seattle is known for its fantastic seafood, and this inviting restaurant stands out as one of the premier spots to come for delicious fish and oysters.

Maneki : This historic eatery dates back to 1904 and is one of Seattle’s oldest restaurants. It serves a wide selection of authentic Japanese plates and some of the city’s best sushi.

Campgrounds near Seattle, WA

Fay Bainbridge Park & Campground : Located just across the bay from Seattle, this year-round site on Bainbridge Island is first come, first served. Amenities include showers, a dump station, and phenomenal views from the waterfront.

Dash Point State Park Campground : Wake up to tranquil views of the Puget Sound at this year-round campsite.

Day 8- Return Your Camper Van

Your West Coast trip ends today. Wake up early at your campground near Seattle, then go to our Washington hub for your drop-off appointment. Our Seattle location is conveniently located near the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport for easy access.

Why Rent a Camper Van for a Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip?

Renting a camper van from Los Angeles is the best way to make the most of your West Coast road trip! Driving a small camper van is easier than driving a large RV

During the trip, you will explore California’s stunning yet winding coastline. You will also see the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Discover the beautiful West Coast from California to the Pacific Northwest. The adventure is filled with dramatic coastlines and breathtaking landscapes.

Small camper vans are more maneuverable and easier to park in tight spaces. They are also more fuel-efficient and cost-effective for long trips. In addition, small camper vans are more versatile and can access more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

1. Mobility.: A large RV could be quite cumbersome to maneuver along the endless curves of Pacific Highway 1 or the crowded urban streets of Seattle and San Francisco. Our smaller camper vans make it easier to move around different terrains and areas during your trip. This will make your trip easier and help you fit into small parking spaces or tight camping spots.

2. Ease of Use: While a traditional RV can be quite intimidating to drive if you’re not used to being behind the wheel of such a large vehicle, our camper vans are similar in size to a family SUV. This way, you’ll feel much more comfortable and at ease during those long periods on the road.

3. No Need for Sewer or Electric Hookups: A traditional RV would require sewer or electric hookups, which many campgrounds on this route do not provide. Our vans are self-contained, so you don’t need hookups. This gives you the freedom to sleep anywhere you want without planning ahead.

Compact camper vans allow for more freedom and less stress when you’re on the road. Enjoy the West Coast’s beautiful landscapes without worrying about RV logistics by renting a smaller vehicle.

Reserve With Escape Camper Vans For Your Los Angeles to Seattle Road Trip

Are you ready to see the beautiful coast of Big Sur? Do you want to enjoy the view of Seattle from the Space Needle? Or swim in the country’s deepest lake?

Book your dream camper van for a Los Angeles to Seattle road trip. Click the link to reserve your Escape Camper Van toda y and start your unforgettable journey.

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Los Angeles to Seattle

The landscape along the West Coast between Seattle and Los Angeles is some of the most beautiful in the world. You name it, the Coast has it. Volcanoes of the Cascade Range, high deserts, ancient Redwood forests, steep coastlines, untamed wildlife, the list goes on! This 1930-mile itinerary will take you on an adventure vacation up the coast, seeing the glory of the Pacific Ocean as you RV your way.

1967 Miles / 3165 KM trip distance

21 day roadtrip

Camper Van recommended

Lets get started!

Head on down to Travellers Autobarn and collect your RV. Before you begin your travels, spend a day getting to know Los Angeles, especially if you have never been to LA and want to jam pack everything into a tight time frame! Take a stroll along the Hollywood Boulevard and get your photo next to one of the stars on the Hollywood walk of fame which stretches for a massive 18 blocks!

Los Angeles to Big Sur

The incredibly picturesque Big Sur is a must stop on your trip. If you’re looking for a surf and swim, Big Sur offers many beautiful beaches along it’s coastline. For the nature lovers, there are many gorgeous national parks that feature some of the largest and oldest redwoods. Try stopping at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park to view some of these forests!

Big Sur to Yosemite National Park

As the Big Sur coast fades into the distance, the open road is calling your name. Your first stop along the way is none other than the infamous Yosemite National Park. 286 miles North along CA-99 N it will take you just under 5 hours travel time. When you visit Yosemite, you will discover an unforgettable experience, especially in spring when the clouds are small and the flora in bloom.

Yosemite National Park to Tracy

After you’ve explored the secret beauties of Yosemite National Park, jump back into your RV and back onto the road and head West to the small city of Tracy. Pull into Vita Dolce in the heart of the city for your pick-me-up, where they scoop Mitchells ice cream in flavors like Pistachio almond, avocado and purple ube. If you’re not in the mood for something sweet, they’ve also got coffee, salads and paninis.

Tracy to Napa Valley

Any wine lovers must stop at Napa Valley. With hundreds of hillside vineyards, the Napa Valley wine region is the perfect place to taste some of the best wines on offer! Beside the wine tasting, the vineyards make for a beautiful photo, so don’t forget your camera.

Napa Valley to Klamath National Forest

Following your wine detour, Klamath National Forest is a beautiful forest for any travellers that love a good hike. The national forest spans nearly 2 millions acres, and is full with picturesque lakes, ponderosa pines and mountain views. Don’t forget to bring your water and check their notice board before hiking out!

Klamath National Forest to Crater Lake

After you’ve had your nature detox, you’ll reach the Crater Lake National Park. This lake was formed just under 8000 years ago. Due to there being no rivers or flowing water that enters the lake, it is one of the cleanest and clearest bodies of water in the world!  Simply relying on only rain and melting snow, in winter the national park becomes 50% invisible – covered in snow! Before you grab your swimsuit and jump on in to the freezing lake be sure to check the signs. Cleetwood Cove Trail is the only place where it is safe and legal to get down to the lake shore.

Crater Lakes to Crescent City

For the perfect small town experience, don’t forget to stop at Crescent City! This coastal city is home to many cute shops, as well as a gorgeous historic lighthouse. If stopping through Crescent City, the Jebediah Smith Redwood forest is a must see. The forest displays amazing giant redwood trees, which is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in nature.

Crescent City to Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a quant coastal town in Northwest Oregon. This gem is best known for it’s beautiful scenery, with ocean views that feature amazing rock formations. After adoring the sights, you can head downtown to explore many boutiques and galleries to fill up your day!

Cannon Beach to Seattle

Your adventure does not stop here! Seattle has many places to explore. Home to a huge farmers market, it’s the perfect place to see some culture. Pike Place Farmers Markets have a variety produce on offer! If you want to experience some history, head on over to the ‘haunted’ Irish Bar Kells. Rumored to be haunted, its sure to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand!

A bittersweet goodbye

There is an endless list of places to explore suited for everyone. Seattle has so many things it’s bursting at the seams. Grab your quote here for an adventure of a lifetime!

Check out more Los Angeles road trip itineraries here!

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6 scenic stops on a seattle to los angeles road trip.

I love exploring Seattle, but it’s also a great jumping-off point for a number of road trips. While there are many short ones around the area, one of my favorites is doing a Seattle to Los Angeles road trip. It takes you all the way through Washington and Oregon and lets you see some of the best parts of the western areas of those states, including the ocean and national parks.

There are so many different places you can stop as you make your way down to California, and since I’ve done this drive several times, I thought I’d put together some of my favorite stops to make it easier for you. While I have a sample Seattle to Los Angeles itinerary for six days to fully allow you to appreciate all these places, you can easily cut that in half and just pick the top places you’re interested in.

With that, let’s get into planning your fun road trip! In addition to suggested cities to stop at, I give you specific attractions to see, restaurants to stop at, and even recommended hotels so you can plan this quickly and focus on the trip instead.

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for a Seattle to Los Angeles Drive

Before we get into the details of an exciting six-day road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles, here are answers to some questions you may have and a few tips to help make your road trip a success.

Thinking of heading in the other direction? Here are 11 stops to try on a Seattle to Banff road trip .

How Long is the Drive from Seattle to Los Angeles?

The drive from Seattle to Los Angeles is approximately 1,135 miles via Interstate 5. This is the most direct route, but you can take several detours along the way. if you want to. It can take anywhere from 17 to 20 hours to drive it in one go.

Travel time is a little harder to calculate, as it really does depend on how fast you drive and whether you want to rush to get there; plus, there are traffic, weather, and road conditions to consider.

Traveling to Big Sur next? Check out these 15 incredible stops on a Los Angeles to Big Sur road trip .

How Far is Los Angeles from Seattle?

The straight-line distance b etween Los Angeles and Seattle is approximately 1,000 miles . However, the road distance, as mentioned, is roughly 1,135 miles .

At least, that’s if you choose to take the most commonly traveled highway route . You could take endless detours that would greatly expand that distance.

When is the Best Time to Travel From Seattle to Los Angeles?

There’s no bad time to go on the drive to Los Angeles from Seattle, but some seasons will be easier than others. I’ve been in both the summer and fall, and I loved both of them for different reasons.

However, fall (September to November) is the best time to travel, in my opinion. Seattle doesn’t have too much rain yet, and you get some beautiful, warm fall days. It also won’t be as crowded as in the summer, so you won’t be fighting for parking spots. Fall also has its fair share of fans for scenery along the road .

Another good time to travel from Seattle to Los Angeles is spring , and I base that on a few factors. For example, it’s slightly cooler, the prices are lower than in summer, and spring does bring some extra flora to the scenery.

If your mood depends on the weather conditions, consider that summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with warm and dry weather. In fact, summer months are generally the driest. On the downside, it can be crowded, and prices for accommodation at many of the stops may be higher.

Winter (December to February) and early spring (March to May) typically see fewer tourists and holidaymakers, so attractions may be more affordable. Also, the roads may be slightly less jammed, with fewer people traveling.

So, in general, summer might be ideal if you don’t mind crowds. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with fewer tourists, consider the off-peak seasons.

How Many Days Is Enough to Spend on a Road Trip to Los Angeles From Seattle?

One week on the road from Seattle to Los Angeles is a good amount of time. You could really stop anywhere along the highway and extend a road trip to literally weeks. Assuming you don’t live the totally carefree lifestyle of a 1960s beatnik, you can do a decent job of it in six to seven days.

Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip Map

7 Stops Along the Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip

It’s a great idea to take some time to properly plan your route and stops based on your interests and the amount of time you have for the road trip. Keep in mind that road conditions, weather, and other factors may influence your travel plans, so check for any updates r egularly while you’re on the road.

Here’s my list of the best places to stop between Los Angeles and Seattle so that you can pick out your favorites.

1. Portland, Oregon

Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses” because it happens to have an ideal climate for growing roses. The International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park features over 10,000 rose bushes and is a popular attraction for visitors. If you love flowers and roses, this would be a fabulous stop for you.

There is another pop-up that Portland is known for, which is food trucks. There are literally hundreds of food carts offering diverse and delicious cuisine throughout the city. This contributes to Portland’s reputation as one of the best cities in the world for street food.

As an aside, if you’re only going as far as Portland, here’s a different road trip to plan between Seattle and Portland .

While you’re here, find a food truck or two and try something from the menu. Visit the International Rose Test Garden and stroll along the Willamette River. For a real thrill, consider doing the Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour . You may see Nina the Ghost , especially after a few tastings from the nearby breweries, which are part of the tour.

For something sweet and tasty, try a treat from Voodoo Doughnut , famous for its unusual and sometimes outrageous doughnut flavors. Pok Pok offers authentic Northern Thai street food. Here’s a hot tip: Try the Fish Sauce Wings or the Khao Soi.

Want some entertainment? Try driving from Seattle to Las Vegas .

2. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The visually stunning Columbia River Gorge was designated as a National Scenic Area in 1986. It was, in fact, one of the first areas in the United States to receive this designation. The gorge is known for towering cliffs, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls in the area.

The diverse landscapes make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, windsurfing, and bird-watching opportunities. While this may be a little out of the way, I highly recommend it if you have the time, as it’s one of my favorite areas in Oregon.

You’ll also want to stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the region. It has the special distinction of being the second-highest year-round waterfall in the United States. It plunges a total of 620 feet, with an upper fall of 542 feet and a lower fall of 69 feet.

Multnomah Falls Lodge Restaurant offers standard family meals with a breathtaking view of the falls. Salmon is a favorite in the region, so be sure to try something involving that delicious ingredient.

You should also stop by the Thunder Island Brewing Company for a taste of local beer.

3. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

This is a famous lake because it is the deepest lake in the United States , reaching a depth of approximately 1,943 feet. More than that, Crater Lake has exceptionally clear and pure water, and it may well be the purest lake in North America due to the absence of rivers flowing into or out of the lake, preventing the accumulation of pollutants.

I took my kids here for the first time a few years ago, and they absolutely loved it. It’s a fun idea to visit Wizard Island, which sits in the middle of the lake, which you can visit via a boat tour. My boys loved talking about all the things they thought lived on this island (mainly a bunch of wizards).

Alternatively, if you’re up to a little extra driving, do the Rim Drive, a scenic 33-mile road that circles Crater Lake. It offers numerous overlooks and pullouts for visitors to enjoy the scenery. You could have a lovely roadside picnic in the afternoon if you like.

Looking for something to eat in a special location? The Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room has views of Crater Lake; reservations are recommended. I also highly recommend staying at the lodge, as it’s the only hotel with a view of the lake and such a relaxing way to wake up. We don’t usually stay right in national parks, but this was one of the few that I knew was worth it.

4. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Redwood National and State Parks, located in northern California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth . You cannot possibly be in this part of the world without taking some time to marvel at one of nature’s miracles on your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip.

Some of these giant Sequoia sempervirens (or Redwoods for short) specimens can reach heights of over 370 feet. Redwood National and State Parks are UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

It’s almost a life-changing experience to witness the awe-inspiring giant redwood trees in these protected areas. If you are in the area at night, consider staying out to watch the skies. Parts of the park are assigned Dark Sky Places, making it an excellent location for stargazing. The absence of light pollution enhances the visibility of the night sky.

Head to Crescent City for excellent sushi at Tomo Japanese Restaurant. Alternatively, the Restaurant at the Benbow Historic Inn is a high-end fine dining experience in a historic setting.

5. San Francisco, California

The city of San Francisco is a major hub for t echnology and innovation , with Silicon Valley located just south of the city. This is the home of many global tech companies and startups, contributing to its reputation as a global tech center. I’ve had so many long layovers here over the years that I know the city pretty well at this point.

There are several major landmarks in San Francisco that are famous within themselves, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf . If you have time, I recommend that you visit all of them. Alternatively, you can do a Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour.

Looking for something to eat? Head down to the Mission District and sample the brunch wares at Tartine Bakery. Upscale Vietnamese cuisine awaits you at the Ferry Building’s Slanted Door. For dessert, Bi-Rite Creamery is a popular ice cream shop with artisanal flavors in the Mission District.

There are so many great road trips that leave from here, including a Sequoia National Park road trip from San Francisco , a San Francisco to Yosemite National Park drive , a San Francisco to Las Vegas drive , and a San Francisco to San Diego road trip .

6. Big Sur 

Big Sur is mostly known for its dramatic coastal landscapes , towering cliffs, rugged mountains, and panoramic ocean views. The Bixby Creek Bridge is a famous landmark here and happens to be one of the most photographed bridges in California.

A large portion of Big Sur is located within the Los Padres National Forest . This lends it the additional appeal of a diverse range of ecosystems , from redwood forests to chaparral-covered hillsides.

A drive along the coastal cliffs of Big Sur is quite breathtaking. You could visit one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast, Point Sur Lighthouse, while you’re here. If you have the energy, try an Old Coast Road eBike tour , which takes you partly through the middle of a 7,100-acre cattle ranch. Watch out for cows!

Food time? Grab a burger or a steak on the cliffs at Nepenthe (it’s the most scenic place you can eat, in my opinion – I didn’t want to leave!), or dine by the river at Big Sur River Inn Restaurant.

Need more? You’ll love continuing on for a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip or a Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip .

Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip: 6-Day Road Trip

Kick off your exciting road trip early in the morning, partly to get out of the city and onto the road quickly. The stages you will need to drive are relatively long, so prepare to spend at least half of each day cruising the highway.

Day 1: Seattle to Portland

Driving time/distance: 2.5 hours (174.1 mi) via I-5 S 

Get on the road and take in your first breaths of the Great American Pacific Northwest.

This part of the world is all lush evergreen forests and panoramic views of Puget Sound. Take the I-5 South, and as you go along, you’ll discover charming towns like Olympia and Centralia. Slow down as you pass by, and try to catch a glimpse of local life.

The road seems to stagger between urban and rural as larger towns like Tacoma disappear and the shape of Mount St. Helens begins to fill the horizon. Cruise along the Columbia River between Washington and Oregon. Eventually, Portland’s eclectic personality will welcome you with its artisanal culture, food scene, and iconic bridges.

Side fact: Here’s a fascinating bit of history to take in as you enter Portland. In the 19th century, city founders Asa Lovejoy and Francis Pettygrove both wanted to name the new settlement after their respective hometowns of Boston and Portland. After failing to agree, they decided to leave it up to a coin toss (Pettygrove won).

Where to Stay: Lolo Pass in Portland is conveniently located around one mile from the Oregon Convention Center and 1.5 miles from the Lan Su Chinese Garden . It has a shared kitchen, a business center, and personalized tour services on offer from the main desk. Rates start at $110 per night  

Day 2: Portland to Crater Lake National Park (Fort Klamath)

Driving time/distance: 4.5 hours (269.1 mi) via I-5 S and OR-58

Prepare to experience some extraordinary natural wonders as you leave Portland and head to the pristine beauty of Crater Lake National Park. Specifically, you’ll be making camp, so to speak, at Fort Klamath.

Heading out of the city, the road pushes through Oregon’s diverse landscapes, transitioning from urban charm to lush forests. En route, you’ll catch your first sight of the gorgeous Columbia River Gorge.

As you approach Crater Lake, your anticipation builds for when the sapphire-blue expanse of Crater Lake reveals itself. Fort Klamath, nestled near the park, offers a tranquil retreat in this context.

Side fact: Something to keep in mind… Native American Klamath tribes consider the lake sacred and have tribal stories surrounding its formation. One legend involves a battle between the sky god and the god of the underworld, resulting in the collapse of Mount Mazama , forming the basin that later filled with water to create Crater Lake.

If you’re starting from Portland, check out my Portland to San Francisco itinerary .

Where to Stay: Aspen Inn is a family-friendly property that seems to understand that a good family BBQ around a grill is as important to a road trip as gas is in the car. The inn boasts a lovely garden and a playground, enhancing the overall experience and making it a real soul-recharger. Rates start at $115 per night   

Day 3: Crater Lake to Redwood National and State Parks

Driving time/distance: 3.5 hours (178.1 mi) via OR-62 W and US-199 S

From blue waters to tall, majestic trees, California’s ancient redwood forests are some of the most famous in the world, and with good reason. Before you get there on your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip, though, there’s plenty of diverse landscape, glimpses of rugged mountain terrain, and lush greenery.

The first clue that you’re getting close is the scent of pine in the air.  This is a sure sign that you’ve successfully traversed the distance between two of the West Coast’s most awe-inspiring destinations.

You can also do a Seattle to Crater Lake road trip to change it up.

Where to Stay: Break away from the hotel scene and try Glenkirk , a beautiful homestay instead. You’ll love the inviting patio, where you can soak up the gorgeous surroundings while sipping on a beverage of your choice. Rates start at $115 per night   

Day 4: Redwood National and State Parks to San Francisco

Driving time/distance:  5.5 hours (337.2 mi) via US-101 S 

It might break your heart to leave these gentle giant redwoods today, but you’ll have to focus on the excitement of getting to San Francisco. This is still a great opportunity to marvel at the scenic coastal roads, though. There are rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and panoramic coastal landscapes, especially as you approach the coast.

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge will be a welcome sight as it welcomes you to the city by the bay. Here, you will need to add several more days to truly indulge in the diverse neighborhoods.

Side fact: One of San Francisco’s most famous institutions is its football team, the 49ers. The name refers to the impact of the gold rush of 1849 on the city’s development. Originally, this was a small settlement called Yerba Buena. The discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill in that year led to a massive influx of fortune seekers.

Where to Stay: Cow Hollow Inn and Suites is nestled in the heart of vibrant San Francisco. It’s just 16 miles from San Francisco International Airport and 22 miles from Oakland International Airport. Rates start at $99 per night

Day 5: San Francisco to Big Sur

Driving time/distance: 2 hours, 25 minutes (146.3 mi) via US-101 S

Time to leave the iconic Golden Gate Bridge behind to wind along Highway 1’s sweeping curves. You guessed it—there are more stunning cliffs and coastline vistas to admire. If you really want to indulge, do a few quick leg-stretching stops at charming coastal towns like Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz.

Big Sur itself offers some terrific landscapes and even includes more awesome redwoods to gaze at. Make a point to see McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge while you’re here.

Where to Stay: The Little European Lodge is cozily nestled in the scenic Carmel Valley and has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Rates start at $190 per night  

Day 6: Big Sur to Los Angeles

Driving time/distance: 5.5 hours (346.6 mi) via I-5 S

This is it! Last day before you arrive in LA! Cross the Bixby Creek Bridge , perched majestically above the crashing waves. This route is awesome, as it can reveal hidden coves, a few charming seaside towns, and views of the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains.

When you arrive in Los Angeles, you’ll notice the stark transition from coastal serenity to vibrant city life. This marks the end of the road trip, but hopefully, the start of a good few days in the City of Angels itself.

Fun fact: We all know that Los Angeles is regarded as the film capital of the world. Part of the reason this became so is that filmmakers migrated out west to take advantage of the abundant sunlight in which to film. Keep that in mind when packing for your trip, and don’t forget your sunscreen.

If you’re heading in the reverse direction, you can have just as much fun on a San Francisco to Big Sur road trip .

Where to Stay: CitizenM Los Angeles Downtown i s at the center of it all, so to speak. Eat and drink your fill at the on-site restaurant and bar, and there’s an iPad in every guest room, adding a modern touch to your stay. Rates start at $190 per night

You’ll love all these Seattle to Los Angeles road trip stops!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

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Ultimate West Coast Road Trip Itinerary from Seattle to LA

The Pacific Coast Highway, known as California State Route 1, is the ultimate road trip route that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this article I’ve included an ultimate West Coast Road Trip Itinerary from Seattle to LA and tips to plan your trip.

Between Seattle and San Diego, the landscape of the US West Coast is one of the most beautiful in the world. A stunning scenery that combines redwood forests, steeps, cliffs, beaches and wildlife.

On this post you’ll find:

• Best time to go to West Coast US
• Renting a car in USA
• Accommodation
• 10-day West Coast Itinerary
• Seattle to Los Angeles road trip itinerary

Planning a USA West Coast road trip

You can get from Seattle to Los Angeles in just two days. But the total purpose of this road trip is to spend some time exploring each city, get carried away by the places that you like the most and extend your stay there. Each place has a different landscape, or an attraction that makes it unique.

The best way to travel the west coast of US is with your own car or rv so you can have your independence and stop whenever you like. You can either rent a car in the city of departure, drive one way and fly back. Or, if you have time drive back to the first city and spend time exploring other places on your way back.

The best time to go to West Coast USA

The USA’s west coast has a diverse climate. The best months to travel are from July to October . Early September is great to avoid the crowds at the most popular cities.

The route is still open during winter and while you won’t enjoy the beaches, you can enjoy the ski season in resorts like Lake Tahoe.

Renting a car in United States

Some of the most popular car rental companies in US are Hertz, Alamo, Budget, Avis, etc. I always use rentalcars.com , a website that compares prices of all rental companies and usually offers a lower price than by booking directly with the rental company.

The requirements to rent a car in the U.S are: driving license, passport and a credit card from the driver. United States minimum age to rent a car is 21 years. Companies charge a plus if you have less than 25 years

Another fantastic idea is to rent an RV as you will save money in accommodation and you don’t need to worry about finding a place to sleep. If you prefer this option, check out this RV company: RV share . They offer drivable and towable RVs and have plenty of pick up locations.

Where to sleep

Although it is ideal to have a flexible itinerary and stop where you like the most, searching for last-minute accommodation can be stressful. If you go in summer, I suggest you book your accommodation in advance. I even had to sleep in the car for some nights because I hadn’t booked every night of my stay in advance.

Along the route and in every city you will find “Inns” or “motels”, which cost around $50 usd the night for double occupancy and usually include a basic breakfast.

WEST COAST ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

The Pacific Coast Highway is a road to explore at your own pace, without planning a lot and just stop along the way in every place that catches your attention. There are many places worth visiting on the West Coast and the itinerary will depend on two things: the time you have and your likes. There are plenty of combinations you can choose for the itinerary. The first thing you need to define is how many days you have and where will you start and finish the route .

My recommendation is to spend at least 10 days in the West Coast Road Trip.

↣ Here’s a 10 day Itinerary from Los Angeles to San Francisco :

• DAY 1 – Los Ángeles : Car pick up. Visit the city.
• DAY 2 – Los Ángeles : visit the city.
• DAY 3- Las Vegas : take the route to Las Vegas early in the morning to avoid the heat. Visit Las Vegas strip.
• DAY 4 – Grand Canyon : Visit the Grand Canyon (South Rim). Night in Las Vegas.
• DAY 5 – Morro Bay : Drive from Las Vegas to Morro Bay (or nearby city).
• DAY 6 – San Francisco : Morro Bay to San Francisco.
• DAY 7 – San Franciso : Visit the city.
• DAY 8 – Yosemite : SF to Yosemite. Sleep near the park.
• DAY 9 – Yosemite : Visit Yosemite and go back to SF.
• DAY 10 – San Francisco : visit the city and return the car.

Seattle to Los Angeles road trip itinerary :

This is the itinerary I took during my trip to the West Coast. My journey actually started in Vancouver, Canada and led towards Los Angeles. Then I traveled back to Canada visiting the States of Nevada, Utah and Idaho. You can take my route as an example and modify it as you like:

Seattle is one my favorite cities in the United States. You can spend two days visiting the famous Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the Gum Wall and visit the first Starbucks. After visiting this amazing city, you can head west and visit Olympic National Park .

Portland is a city surrounded by forests and rivers, immersed in art and culture. You can spend 2 days to explore the city a bit. You can’t miss : Powell’s books, International Rose Test Garden, and a bike tour through the city surroundings. If you like shopping Portland is the perfect place because there is no Sales Tax to pay in Oregon.

• Portland to Crescent City

Take I-5 route towards the South and drive to Crescent City, where you can spend the night. On the way, you can stop in Salem, Eugene and Crater Lake, Oregon’s only National Park.

• Crescent City to San Francisco

Take the famous California Highway 101 from Crescent City to San Francisco adding stopovers in cities like Eureka and Mendocino. Along the way you will pass through Avenue of the Giants, a spectacular part of the route surrounded by a huge redwood forest.

• SAN FRANCISCO

No need to introduce this city. San Francisco is famous for its steep streets, Alcatraz prison and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. You can’t miss: Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street, the Palace of Fine Arts, and Golden Gate Park. If you go in summer, remember to book Alcatraz tickets in advance . If you have time, you can also check out Berkeley and its famous university.

• YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

I know Yosemite is not on the coast but it is an incredible place for nature lovers. Yosemite is one of the best National Parks in the US and it is located about 3 hours from San Francisco. Lakes, waterfalls, granite mountains, redwoods, wildlife… Yosemite makes you realize how huge nature is and how tiny we are as humans. I recommend visiting it at least for 3 days.

You might also like: The ultimate guide for visiting Yosemite National Park

• Yosemite – Morro Bay

After spending a few days in Yosemite, you can head towards the coast again and stop along in: Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Simeon, Cambria and Morro Bay. Must stops in Bixby Creek Bridge and Big Sur . You can visit the famous Hearst Castle located in San Simeon. In my opinion, this is the most beautiful part of the route, you will want to stop in each place to take pictures and admire the view.

Morro Bay is a small town located in San Luis Obispo County. As its name implies, a volcanic rock pops up directly from the ocean in Morro Bay. Walk along the harbor where you’ll find restaurants,art galleries, shops and bars.

You might also like: Visiting Morro Bay here .

• Morro Bay – Los Angeles

It’s only a 4 hours drive between Morro Bay and Los Angeles, but on the way there are a couple of places that are worth a stop: San Luis Obispo, Prismo Beach, Santa Barbara, Malibu and more! The whole area of the Californian coast is fantastic.

• LOS ANGELES

L.A finally! This city is huge. You should choose wisely where to stay since the distances are long and the traffic is terrible. I stayed in Costa Mesa at a friend’s house so I experienced a bit of the local life in Orange County.

Some of the places I visited were Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

You can’t miss : a walk through Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Griffith Observatory. You can also spend a day visiting Universal Studios or Disneyland (the original one).

If you want to know more read: Top things to do in Los Angeles on a budget

Seattle to Los Angeles road trip map:

From Los Angeles, you can follow the coast until you reach San Diego in Southern California. Los Angeles was the last stop on the coast for me. From Los Angeles I headed to Las Vegas, visited the Grand Canyon and went back to Canada.

But this part of the road trip deserves another post, so let me know in the comments if you would like to read about it!

I hope this itinerary from Seattle to LA has helped you in planning your west coast road trip. If you have any questions please comment below or send me an email.

Other posts that you might like:

• Visiting Morro Bay in California
• Road trip packing list
• How to get last minute Alcatraz tickets
• The ultimate guide for visiting Yosemite National Park
• Info & Tips for planning a trip to Chicago

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links. That means, if you click on certain links within this post and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read more about it here .

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Seattle to Los Angeles drive

Seattle to los angeles road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Seattle to Los Angeles. If you're planning a road trip to Los Angeles, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Seattle drive for about 2.5 hours

12:43 pm   Portland eat at Voodoo Doughnuts stay for about 4 hours and leave at 4:43 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Eugene drive for about 3 hours

12:49 pm   Medford stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:49 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

4:19 pm   Redding stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:19 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 8 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Sacramento drive for about 2 hours

11:58 am   Merced stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:58 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

3:34 pm   Bakersfield stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:34 pm drive for about 2 hours

6:29 pm  arrive in Los Angeles eat at Gjelina stay at Shutters On the Beach

day 3 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

Seattle to Los Angeles questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Portland   (275 answers)     International Rose Test Garden   (20 mentions)     Powell's City of Books   (17 mentions)     Japanese Gardens   (15 mentions)     Portland Saturday Market   (13 mentions)     Timberline Lodge   (12 mentions)     restaurants around Portland:         Voodoo Doughnuts         Tasty N Sons         Lardo         Potato Champion         Pok Pok Restaurant     questions about Portland:         What is your favorite restaurant in Portland?         Mid July: 1 week with wife and kid - what should we prioritize?         Best coffee shops in Portland         Visiting in July for 5 days with my boyfriend, where and what must we do?         Artsy area with fun little shops Eugene   (24 answers)     questions about Eugene:         What is your favorite restaurant in Eugene? Medford   (18 answers) Redding   (16 answers)     restaurants around Redding:         Wilda's Grill         Market Street Steakhouse     questions about Redding:         Best free things to do in Redding?         What is your favorite restaurant in Redding? Sacramento   (73 answers)     California State Railroad Museum   (6 mentions)     California State Capitol Museum   (3 mentions)     58 Degrees & Holding Co.   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Sacramento:         Ella Dining Room & Bar         Rick's Dessert Diner         Delta King Hotel         The Rind         Mulvaney's B&L     questions about Sacramento:         What is your favorite restaurant in Sacramento?         Things to do and see in Sacramento         Hidden gems in Sacramento?         Me want food in Sacramento!         Question about location for USA Outdoor Nationals Merced   (5 answers) Bakersfield   (23 answers)     questions about Bakersfield:         Best free things to do in Bakersfield?

Where's the best place to stay in Los Angeles?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Los Angeles .

You can also see most people recommend as the best amount of time to visit. Find out how many days in Los Angeles to stay.

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Shutters On the Beach , which was mentioned 36 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Los Angeles? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Los Angeles?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Gjelina , which was mentioned 44 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Los Angeles? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Los Angeles?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Los Angeles. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Los Angeles.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Los Angeles to Seattle drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Seattle to Los Angeles . Or get a full Seattle to Los Angeles flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Seattle well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Seattle!

More info on this route:

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cost to drive

cities along the way

flattest route

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20 Places To Visit On A Seattle To Los Angeles Road Trip

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The US West Coast is one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline anywhere in the world. Stretching from Washington in the northwest to California in the south, there are thousands of towns, landmarks and attractions to visit when planning a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles.

Travelling the entire length of America’s West Coast will take road trippers through places such as San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Malibu, Portland, Mount Rainier, and plenty more fascinating towns and cities along the way.

From world-class beaches to snowy mountaintops, the West Coast is fantastic to explore by car whether you’re driving from Seattle to Los Angeles or in reverse, from Los Angeles to Seattle. Either way, take it at a relaxing pace to truly marvel at just how stunningly beautiful this part of the world is.

1- Mount Rainier National Park

2- portland, 3- cannon beach, 4- lincoln city, 5- crater lake national park, 6- lake tahoe, 7- yosemite national park, 8- napa and sonoma valleys, 9- san francisco, 10- half moon bay, 11- santa cruz, 12- monterey, 13- carmel-by-the-sea, 14- big sur, 15- hearst castle, 16- pismo beach, 17- solvang, 18- santa barbara, 20- santa monica pier, seattle to los angeles, 20 places to visit on a road trip from seattle to los angeles.

Mount Rainier is an iconic natural landmark in Washington state at over 14,000 feet (4267 m) above sea level.

Situated inside the magnificent Mount Rainier National Park, the peak is both an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous United States.

It goes without saying that wildlife truly abounds all around Mount Rainier, with hundreds of plant and animal species calling its slopes home.

With lots of things to do every season of the year, there’s no better place to stop in this national park in Washington state to bid the Evergreen State goodbye as you make your way further south and towards Oregon.

Mount Rainier National Park is 86 miles from Seattle (about 1.5 hours). 

Named after Maine’s Portland on the East Coast, Portland in Oregon started receiving large influxes of settlers and pioneers during the 1840s, ultimately growing into what is today.

The largest city in Oregon is a cosmopolitan and forward-thinking city packed with attractions and landmarks to explore, including the ever-popular Pioneer Courthouse Square, the scenic Portland Aerial Tram and the trendy Pearl District.

Nicknamed the City of Roses, Portland offers a healthy blend of urban and nature, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two before hitting the road to LA again. If you plan on staying longer, you’ll find plenty to do in Portland at night .

Portland is 138 miles from Mount Rainer National Park (about 2.5 hours).

Recommended tour: Portland Food Carts, Pods and Patios Tour

80 miles (14 km) west of Downtown Portland, the idyllic seaside town of Cannon Beach is the go-to coastal getaway destination in Oregon and one of the most exclusive zip codes in the northwest.

The city is packed with unique attractions and views that’ll take your breath away, none more so than the town’s picture-perfect stretch of beach home to cascading waterfalls and unrivalled natural beauty.

Not only is Cannon Beach home to what National Geographic regards as one of the top 100 beaches in the world, but its proximity to Portland makes it great for a quick detour on your way to LA.

Cannon Beach is 79 miles from Portland (about 1.5 hours).

Recommended tour: Oregon Coast Day Trip: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Straddling the Pacific Ocean along Oregon’s northwest corner, Lincoln City is where world-class beaches, attractions and culture collide to create one truly spectacular road trip destination.

The city draws thousands of holiday-goers every year from all across the United States and the world and has an incredibly diverse range of attractions to visit and sights to see, some of which are world-renowned.

Featuring attractions that range from a popular glass bowing centre to a UNESCO-recognised reserve, visiting Lincoln City is a must during every Seattle to LA road trip.

Lincoln City is 83.5 miles from Cannon Beach (about 2 hours).

One of the national parks in Oregon , Crater Lake National Park, features the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake, which was formed roughly 8,000 years ago when a violent eruption collapsed the dome of an old volcano that stood where the lake currently lies.

The centrepiece of a protected park area that includes age-old cliffs and otherworldly rock formations, Crater Lake is one of America’s most visually stunning lakes.

While the lake certainly takes centre stage inside the park, it’s by no means the only activity to partake in, as the park is home to numerous campsites and scenic hiking trails.

Crater Lake is 258 miles from Lincoln City (about 5 hours). Stop in Eugene for a night if you’d rather do a shorter drive. 

Recommended tour: Crater Lake Day Shared Tour

Neatly perched right on the Nevada-California border, the famous Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and a haven for all things outdoor related.

The lake is surrounded by a collection of stunning year-round snow-capped mountains, making this bright-blue lake one of the most scenic destinations in the United States.

Welcoming over 2.7 million visitors annually, Lake Tahoe is an incredibly popular destination for road trippers heading from Washington or Oregon to LA because of the lake’s world-class hiking, watersports, skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

While a slight detour from the main route to LA, it’s well worth the extra drive to experience all its majesty. Here are some things to do in Lake Tahoe for all seasons.

Lake Tahoe is 367 miles from Crater Lake (about 7 hours). If this is too long a drive, there are a few small towns to break your journey along the way, such as Redding or Chico. 

Recommended tour: 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe

Yosemite National Park , situated among the stunning Sierra Nevada Mountains, is undoubtedly the crown jewel of California’s National Park system.

A sprawling 1,200-square mile (3,108 sq. km) area filled with breathtaking Californian scenery, the park features more than 1,000 waterfalls, near-vertical cliffs and verdant gorges stretching as far as the eye can see.

This UNESCO-listed National Park is located about 3 hours from Downtown San Francisco and is known around the world for its endless amounts of hiking trails, scenic lakes, ancient sequoia forests, and various plant and animal species.

Yosemite and nearby Lake Tahoe can be combined into a two-day excursion from the main route to LA to create an unbeatable outdoor getaway featuring some of the best attractions and scenery anywhere in the world.

Yosemite National Park is 185 miles (about 4 hours) from Lake Tahoe. 

Recommended tour: Guided Yosemite Hiking Excursion

The Napa Valley & Sonoma Valleys are two of California’s most prestigious and award-winning wine regions, producing everything from Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon to Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc.

Napa is home to over 400 wineries and is an absolute dream destination for wine lovers, with most wineries opening their doors to teach visitors the wine-making process from vine to glass.

Sonoma is the smaller and less travelled of the two valleys, though in no way the lesser, treating visitors to a healthy mix of small-scale boutique wineries and large-scale vineyards producing globally available wines.

Sonoma Valley boasts some of the most idyllic landscapes in California and wine varieties that’ll rival even those found throughout the Napa Valley, all at a more affordable price than more travelled and more famous Napa.

The Napa Valley is 182 miles from Yosemite National Park (about 3.5 hours). 

Recommended tour: Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour from San Francisco

Known around the world for its tech titans, steep streets and charming neighbourhoods, San Francisco and the Bay Area are some of the best tourist destinations in the world.

Situated smack-bang in the middle of some of Northern California’s most stunning natural scenery, San Francisco’s amazing experiences will leave even seasoned travellers struggling to decide what to see or visit next. This San Francisco itinerary may help.

Whether you’re a fan of idyllic seaside resorts or hiking some of the tallest peaks in the Golden State, San Francisco has you covered.

With plenty of scenic parks, historic districts and a cultural melting pot from every corner of the world just waiting to be discovered, there’s never a dull moment in San Francisco night or day.

San Francisco is 59 miles from the Napa Valley (around 1 hour 15 minutes).

Recommended tour: San Francisco Love Tour

Tucked away neatly between rustic farms and lush forests, charming Half Moon Bay is a serene countryside community dotted with pumpkin patches and ranches, situated less than a 30-minute drive away from busy San Francisco.

The entire region surrounding Half Moon Bay is renowned for its stunning beaches that stretch for miles on end and a lively culinary scene that keeps tourists flocking to Half Moon Bay all year round.

Although famous throughout California as a quintessential surfer’s paradise, the town’s many other amazing activities, such as horseback riding, seaside hiking and bird-watching, make it a great destination to visit no matter your travel interests.

Half Moon Bay is 29.6 miles (about 30 minutes) from San Francisco. 

Dotted with world-class beaches and its famous Beach Boardwalk, sunny Santa Cruz is among California’s best seaside towns to stop by.

Located a mere 70 miles (113 km) south of San Francisco, Santa Cruz is an immensely popular destination along the Monterey coast, thanks to its remote coves and great year-round weather.

Attractions to see in Santa Cruz include the Roaring Camp Railroads, a family-friendly railway journey that runs through magical redwood forests, as well as Downtown Santa Cruz’s Spanish Revival-style Mission, which was built in the 18th century.

Packed with plenty of nature and history to enjoy, not to mention the town’s varied mix of fantastic restaurants and cafes, makes stopping by Santa Cruz a fun and entertaining experience as you make your way down to LA.

Santa Cruz is 48.5 miles (58 minutes) from Half Moon Bay. 

Recommended: Beginner Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

Widely regarded as the go-to seaside escape in Northern California, low-key and absolutely spectacular Monterey will wow just about any traveller with its temperate climate, award-winning culinary scene and staggering cliffs.

Situated roughly two hours from San Francisco, Monterey provides travellers a much-needed break from the city while still being close enough so that city slickers won’t feel too disconnected from urbanity.

Monterey puts visitors on the doorstep of world-renowned venues such as Carmel, Pebble Beach and Big Sur, making Monterey the epicentre of some of the Golden State’s most popular destinations, ideal for an overnight stay on your way to LA.

Monterey is 91 miles (less than 2 hours) from Santa Cruz. 

Recommended tour: Half-day Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

Located less than 5 miles (8 km) from Monterey and within 120 miles (193 km) from San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is among the Golden State’s most romantic destinations thanks to its stretch of fantastic white sandy beach and spectacular vistas.

The town is filled with whimsical cottages, amazing restaurants and boutiques to stop by, offering visitors a wide array of activities and things to see.

Home to some of the most picturesque natural surroundings in all of California, Carmel and next-door Monterey is the perfect place to unwind for a day or two before hitting the road again.

Carmel is 5 miles (10 minutes) from Monterey and both places can be explored in half a day if you’re short on time. 

Recommended tour: Scenic Carmel-By-The-Sea Guided E-Bike Tour

Big Sur is undeniably one of the most photographed and most recognised landmarks on the West Coast of the United States.

Big Sur and the Bixby Bridge, which spans the rocky, near-vertical canyon, stands over 260 feet (79 m) above the ground below, making it the perfect place to enjoy the majestic views of the surrounding hills and ocean.

The Big Sur area stretches for over 90 miles (145 km) from Carmel to Hearst Castle and encompasses a much larger area than just the often-photographed Bixby Bridge.

Built in 1932 for a mere $200,000, the landmark is still one of the largest concrete span bridges in the world and features sweeping, 360-degree views, perfect to drive across on your way to Southern California.

The Big Sur is 25.8 miles (40 minutes) from Carmel. 

Recommended tour: Big Sur Self Driving Audio Tour

Hearst Castle is one of California’s most visited historical landmarks, built in 1947 by the first female architect in the United States, Julia Morgan.

The enormous 165-room Hearst Castle is a true memorial to the affluent and extravagant lifestyle of the industrial titan who commissioned it, William Randolph Hearst, covering an area of over 127 acres (51 ha).

The castle is conveniently situated roughly at the halfway point between Los Angeles and San Francisco , making it a popular road trip destination to stop at for many curious travellers looking to stretch their legs a little.

This unmissable Californian landmark is always worth checking out on any West Coast road trip and is perfectly situated just off the main route to LA.

Hearst Castle is 178 miles (just over 3 hours) from the Big Sur. 

Pismo Beach is one of central California’s best beachside towns and is renowned for its fantastic eateries, chic boutiques and shops, and amazing stretches of golden sandy beach that are simply divine to lounge around on.

The town is very much a destination that should be discovered, enjoyed and fully explored at a slow pace, so it’s highly recommended to plan an overnight stay here before heading further south to Solvang and beyond.

Featuring plenty of hiking trails, scenic ocean views and some of the best wineries in California, Pismo Beach has something to do for every road-tripper.

Pismo Beach is 54 miles (about one hour) from Hearst Castle. 

Recommended tour: Pismo Beach Surf Lessons

Solvang is an authentic Danish-themed town nestled in California’s Santa Ynez Valley that was founded by Danish immigrants who fled the cold winters of the Midwest to settle in the Golden State.

Bringing their wooden windmills and charming houses along with them, the town took on a unique appearance, with colourful wooden houses and Danish shops lining virtually every street in Solvang.

Very few Danes still live in Solvang today, however, the town’s replica Copenhagen Round Tower, quaint Christmas shops, Danish bakeries and Danish cottages still exist for road trippers to enjoy, making it an absolute must-see destination.

Solvang is 53.9 miles (less than an hour’s drive) from Pismo Beach. 

Recommended tour: Private Guided Pedicab Tour of Solvang

Situated in what is colloquially referred to as ‘America’s Riviera’, Santa Barbara is a stunning seaside town famed for its palm tree-lined streets, Spanish Revival architecture and a star-studded line-up of famous Hollywood entertainers.

The entire city is dotted with Spanish Missions, world-renowned restaurants and endless amounts of nature to explore.

With plenty of stunning beaches and scenic hiking trails, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with this stunning Californian town.

For great things to experience while in Santa Barbara , try taking a tour to the top of the Santa Barbara courthouse for unrivalled 360-degree views or stop by Stearns Wharf to marvel at the stunning display of boats.

Whatever you prefer to do in Santa Barbara, there’s never a dull moment in this amazing SoCal destination.

Santa Barbara is 33.3 miles (about 45 minutes) from Solvang. 

Recommended tour: Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Malibu is among the ritziest towns in America, with the Pacific Ocean bordering its west and the Santa Monica Mountains to the east.

Malibu is a popular California destination known for its 27 miles (43 km) of pristine coastline and large beachfront mansions near Downtown Los Angeles.

Malibu’s perfect sandy beaches are open to the public between sunrise and sunset every day.

The nearby mountains provide hikers with ample hiking opportunities and the ability to see several of SoCal’s native fauna and flora.

If you’re all done enjoying the town’s great outdoor attractions, try checking out Malibu’s fabulous restaurants and cafes, rated as some of the best in the world, before venturing further to our final road trip destination.

Malibu is 66.6 miles (1 hour 15 minutes) from Santa Barbara.

Recommended tour: Small Group Malibu Wine Hike

Complete with lively golden beaches and an incredibly vibrant nightlife scene, Santa Monica is the perfect destination to cap off your road trip from Seattle to LA.

Santa Monica and its famous illuminated pier west of Downtown Los Angeles and is widely regarded as the city’s surfing and skateboarding capital.

The Santa Monica Pier is littered with old-fashioned carnival rides, rollercoasters and several other carnival favourites to keep you royally entertained all day and night.

The pier is amazing to visit during the daytime but comes to life during sunset.

The unbeatable views across the Pacific Ocean create the perfect backdrop and final showcase to one of the world’s best road trips.

Santa Monica Pier is 18.5 miles (27 minutes) from Malibu. From there, the centre of LA is 17.3 miles (26 minutes if the traffic is good!). 

Recommended tour: 5.5-hour LA and Hollywood Tour from Santa Monica

Looking for a road trip? Here are some epic driving vacations.

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Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

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Tips for a One-Way Road Trip from Seattle to Los Angeles

The drive can be as little as 17 hours or much longer if you choose to take highways rather than the straightest route. You will allow you to travel along almost the entire Pacific Coast, through cities, towns, forests, and with a view of mountains in spots. It’s a great idea to drive on Highway 101 that runs down the coast in Oregon and California for at least part of your trip to take in the great Pacific Ocean views. Keep in mind that some roads during your journey may charge tolls.

Driving Directions from Seattle to Los Angeles

The fastest way to get from Seattle to Los Angeles is to get on Interstate 5 South , and it can take you all the way to Southern California in a couple of days of driving. If you want a break halfway through your journey, you can make a pit-stop in Redding, California, which sits between two national forests in Northern California. Here are some of the route options.

• I-5 S: Follow the signs to I-5 south from wherever you are coming from in the Seattle area. This route will take you through cities like Olympia , Portland, OR , and Sacramento .
• Highway 101 S: This route takes around 25 hours without stops, and it starts on I-5 through Portland , but then goes over to the coast and Highway 101 just after Salem, O R. You’ll continue south on this highway along the Oregon Coast and into California where it goes inland through San Francisco and then back over to the Pacific Coast and Highway 1 at Monterey . Then you’ll continue south, back on the 101 , through towns like Santa Barbara , Malibu and Santa Monica before reaching LA.

5 Stops to Make Along the Way

Portland japanese garden, portland, or.

Relax in nature and admire some beautiful flowers that come from all over the world in the Japanese Garden that is part of Portland’s Washington Park . There is a waterfall and teahouse to enjoy, and when you’ve seen everything in the garden you can check out the International Rose Test Garden that’s located alongside it in the park.

Sundial Bridge, Redding, CA

If you need to stretch your legs, stopping at the Sundial Bridge in Redding is a great option. Visit this landmark bridge and experience its glass walkway that provides a perfect view of the Sacramento River underneath. If you go after dark, you can admire the bridge walkway’s aquamarine lights.

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Sacramento, CA

Sitting in central Sacramento is Sutter’s Fort , a trade colony built in the mid-1800s by Swiss immigrant John Sutter in what was then Mexico and abandoned less than a decade later after the California Gold Rush lured people elsewhere. You can take a self-guided tour of the adobe structures and grounds that have been restored to their original state.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA

It is worth your while to take a detour to San Francisco , no matter what route you take between Seattle and LA. If you take Highway 101 into the city from the north, you can drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and see the views of the city’s notorious fog doesn’t spoil it. You can also park near one end and walk or bike along the 1 mile-long bridge and take pictures if you have time.

Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, CA

When you reach the end of your journey and arrive in sunny Los Angeles , why not visit one of the city’s iconic landmarks? Hike up to the Hollywood Sign and take in the amazing view of the city that will leave you speechless.

SIXT Rent a Car in Seattle

We have multiple locations in Seattle for your to pick up a one-way car rental, as well as a delivery service. This includes downtown near Pike Place Market and at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport . If you are planning to stop along the way for some hiking or snow sports, or just need ample cargo room, explore SIXT exotic car for rent and book an SUV for your trip. Or if you need something budget-friendly and good for city stops, choose an economy or compact car. Be advised that not all car categories are available for one-way rentals.

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Seattle To Los Angeles Road Trip: Top 19 Tips

Traveling from Seattle to Los Angeles is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 1,137 miles of a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles takes around 17 hours and 44 mins of driving without stops.

In this article, we share the 19 top tips that turn your Los Angeles trip into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles, keep reading!

Table of Contents

7 Best Hotels On The Way From Seattle To Los Angeles

On the way from Seattle to Los Angeles, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top seven hotels on the Seattle – Los Angeles route!

• Hampton Inn & Suites Olympia Lacey: Hampton Inn & Suites Olympia Lacey is one of the best hotels where you can stay on the Seattle – Los Angeles route. Driving from Seattle to Los Angeles might take around 1 hour and 3 mins . It has nicely sized and comfortable bedrooms. The coffee is excellent, and you’ll love making your waffles. Check the Hampton Inn & Suites Olympia Lacey on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Hotel Lucia: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Los Angeles from Seattle is Hotel Lucia. The hotel is 173 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 2 hours and 51 mins to drive. Portland is well-known for its abundance of great restaurants and attractions, so it’s a great place to stay if you want to rest and rejuvenate. Hotel Lucia is a unique small hotel that offers comfortable beds, a well-equipped gym, cozy conversation areas, and welcoming staff. If you want to learn more about Hotel Lucia you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Inn at the 5th: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Inn at the 5th. The inn at the 5th is 283 miles away from Seattle, and you can arrive there with 4 hours and 34 mins of non-stop driving. The Inn at the 5th is a boutique hotel that is well-planned and very comfortable. I appreciate walking to the shops and restaurants, as it is easy to access the University of Oregon campus. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Inn at the 5th for more information.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Redding: The next hotel suggestion is Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Redding, 590 miles from Seattle. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Redding is also 310 miles away from the previous suggestion, Inn at the 5th. Again, the staff was friendly, and check-in went smoothly. Our room was clean and comfortable, and they had full-service breakfast now. If you need more info about the price and availability of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Redding, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento at CSUS: Our next hotel is Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento at CSUS. It will take 12 hours and 1 min of car ride o reach this hotel from Seattle. The staff was professional, hardworking, and friendly. The room we stayed in was large and well-designed. The breakfast included was excellent. Check the Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento at CSUS on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento at CSUS for reviews, prices, and availability.
• Hilton Stockton: Another hotel you can accommodate on the Seattle – Los Angeles route is Hilton Stockton. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel within 12 hours, 35 mins drive from Seattle. This Hilton hotel is located near several attractions in the Stockton area, including the Stockton Arena and Haggin Museum. It’s also close to Lodi Wine Country and Francisco Or Sacramento. The rooms are comfortable, with good beds and pillows. You can also charge your electric car here. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .
• The Prospect Hollywood: Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is The Prospect Hollywood. It’s 1,129 miles from Seattle, and you can arrive there within 17 hours and 33 mins of car drive. The architecture, the cleanliness, and the friendly service are all great features of this location. It’s a great place to take a class or to relax after work. If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Prospect Hollywood.

In this part, we explained seven different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take the same Seattle to Los Angeles route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Seattle to Los Angeles. We have seven restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

7 Best Restaurants On The Way To Los Angeles From Seattle

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip. In this section, we list the seven different restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Gardner’s Restaurant: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list from Seattle to Los Angeles with Gardner’s Restaurant. It is 61.6 miles from Seattle and would take 1 hour and 9 mins of driving. The restaurant is family-owned and staffed by kind friends. The food is exceptional, with consistently friendly service. The steak was cooked perfectly, and the risotto and prawns were delicious. For more information about Gardner’s Restaurant, visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Gardner’s Restaurant.
• Q Restaurant & Bar: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Los Angeles from Seattle is Q Restaurant & Bar. The restaurant is 174 miles from Seattle and would take 2 hours and 52 mins of driving. This restaurant has some of the best food and service I’ve ever experienced. I ordered bacon-wrapped dates as my appetizer, osso buco for my entree, and piña colada trio leches cake for dessert. Each portion of my meal was fantastic, and I can’t wait to come back! If you want to learn more about Q Restaurant & Bar, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Sabai Cafe & Bar: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Sabai Cafe & Bar. It will take 4 hours and 33 mins of car drive to take 282 miles from Seattle. It is a longstanding restaurant that specializes in authentic Thai cuisine. The ingredients are all fresh and sourced from Thailand, and the food quality has improved significantly in recent years. This place is a favorite among Bangkok residents for its delicious dishes. You can check Sabai Cafe & Bar on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information .
• Cattlemens, Redding: Cattlemens, Redding deserves to be on our list. The food at this restaurant is always top quality, and the portions are enormous. I had the prime rib, and it was cooked to perfection. My friend had the BBQ bacon burger, and she was very impressed. Cattlemens, Redding is 594 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 9 hours 31 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Cattlemens, Redding, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Tower Cafe: If you enjoy dining, Tower Cafe would be an excellent choice. It’s 754 miles from Seattle and would take 11 hours and 55 mins of car driving. The eclectic and varied menu at the restaurant reflects the diversity of Sacramento. The service is excellent, and the dining room is delightful. If you want to learn more about the Tower Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Dave Wongs: Another restaurant we recommend you to visit on the route from Seattle to Los Angeles is Dave WongsIt will take 12 hours and 34 mins of driving to reach Dave Wongs from Seattle. The food is reasonably priced and has a slightly different flavor than fast food. The portions are generous, and the staff is polite. For more information about Dave Wongs, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.
• Brent’s Deli Northridge: Ranked seventh on our list, Brent’s Deli Northridge appeals to those who want to turn their Los Angeles vacation into a memorable experience. It’s 1,123 miles from Seattle, and it’ll take 17 hours and 33 minutes to drive. Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant is a Californian restaurant specializing in quality meals and premium cuts of meat. In addition, they have an excellent selection of coffee drinks to pair with their desserts, making it the perfect spot for a delicious meal. If you want to learn more about Brent’s Deli Northridge, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our seven restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 1,137 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Los Angeles road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Seattle to Los Angeles. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The Way From Seattle To Los Angeles

A unique experience awaits you in Los Angeles. However, there are also some unique destinations on the road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the Los Angeles route.

• Portland Japanese Garden: Portland Japanese Garden will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip. Portland Japanese Garden is 174 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 2 hours and 55 mins to drive. The Portland Japanese Garden is considered one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan. In 2017, the Garden opened its new Cultural Village, which includes new garden spaces, classrooms, exhibitions, and gallery spaces. The Umami Cafe is also open in this area. If you want to learn more about the Portland Japanese Garden, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Cascades Raptor Center: Cascades Raptor Center is one of the destinations we recommend you to stop by on the Seattle to Los Angeles route. It’s 291 miles from Seattle, and it’ll take about 4 hours and 45 mins of driving. The nature center and wildlife hospital specializing in birds of prey, including owls, falcons, hawks, and bald and golden eagles. They rescue birds of all kinds from all over the United States and have an incredible collection of resident birds. The center is open Tuesday-Sunday and on some significant Monday holidays. If you want to learn more about Cascades Raptor Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Turtle Bay Exploration Park: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles is Turtle Bay, Exploration Park. You can arrive at Turtle Bay Exploration Park after 9 hours 29 mins of driving. The Turtle Bay Exploration Park is a fun and educational place that features the Sundial Bridge, a museum, forestry & wildlife center, arboretum, and botanical gardens. The Park has air conditioning to keep visitors comfortable during hot days and shaded trails for those who want to enjoy nature in peace and quiet. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Turtle Bay Exploration Park for more information.
• Griffith Observatory: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Griffith Observatory on the road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. Griffith Observatory is 1,133 miles from Seattle, and you can arrive there after the 17 hours 44 mins of drive. The Observatory offers a planetarium, exhibits, public telescopes, a cafe, a bookstore, and the best views of the Los Angeles skyline from its patios. This is a great place to see the skyline views of Hollywood and the surrounding area. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Griffith Observatory before going there.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: Brent’s Deli Northridge ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the Los Angeles road trip. You must take 17 hours 31 mins of driving to arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood.The Hollywood Experience is a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place.If you want to learn more about Universal Studios Hollywood, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Seattle to Los Angeles

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Seattle to Los Angeles drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Seattle To Los Angeles?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the road trip takes approximately 17 hours and 44 mins to drive. The distance between Seattle to Los Angeles is 1,137 miles.
• If you want to make the Seattle to Los Angeles road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be four days and 6 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Seattle-Los Angeles route, you will have to walk for 15 days and 17 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Seattle To Los Angeles?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Los Angeles. Here we list five of them . For more information about the best places on the Seattle to Los Angeles journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The Way From Seattle To Los Angeles .

• Portland Japanese Garden: 174 miles / 2 hours 55 mins to drive from Seattle | 966 miles / 15 hours 4 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Cascades Raptor Center: 291 miles / 4 hours 45 mins to drive from Seattle | 859 miles / 13 hours 23 mins of moving to Los Angeles.
• Turtle Bay Exploration Park: 593 miles / 9 hours 29 mins to drive from Seattle | 545 miles / 8 hours 20 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Griffith Observatory: 1,133 miles / 17 hours 44 mins to drive from Seattle | 9.2 miles / 23 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: 1,126 miles / 17 hours 31 mins to drive from Seattle | 9.4 miles / 19 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Seattle To Los Angeles?

There are many excellent hotels during your Seattle to Los Angeles road trip. We have selected seven hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 7 Best Hotels On The Way To Los Angeles From Seattle section.

• Hampton Inn & Suites Olympia Lacey: 57.1 miles / 1 hour 3 mins to drive from Seattle | 1,080 miles / 16 hours 46 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Hotel Lucia: 173 miles / 2 hours 51 mins to drive from Seattle | 965 miles / 15 hours 1 min of driving to Los Angeles.
• Inn at the 5th: 283 miles / 4 hours 34 mins to drive from Seattle | 857 miles / 13 hours 22 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Redding: 590 miles / 9 hours 27 mins to drive from Seattle | 547 miles / 8 hours 21 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento at CSUS: 758 miles / 12 hours 1 min to drive from Seattle | 389 miles / 6 hours 0 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Hilton Stockton: 796 miles / 12 hours 35 mins to drive from Seattle | 342 miles / 5 hours 16 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• The Prospect Hollywood: 1,129 miles / 17 hours 33 mins to drive from Seattle | 7.4 miles / 17 mins of moving to Los Angeles.

Where To Eat Between Seattle to Los Angeles?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Seattle to Los Angeles journey, you can consider the seven restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 7 Best Restaurants On The Way From Seattle To Los Angeles .

• Gardner’s Restaurant: 61.6 miles / 1 hour 9 mins to drive from Seattle | 1,078 miles / 16 hours 46 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Q Restaurant & Bar: 174 miles / 2 hours 52 mins to drive from Seattle | 964 miles / 15 hours 0 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Sabai Cafe & Bar: 282 miles / 4 hours 33 mins to drive from Seattle | 858 miles / 13 hours 20 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Cattlemens, Redding: 594 miles / 9 hours 31 mins to drive from Seattle | 544 miles / 8 hours 19 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Tower Cafe: 754 miles / 11 hours 55 mins to drive from Seattle | 384 miles / 5 hours 56 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Dave Wongs: 795 miles / 12 hours 34 mins to drive from Seattle | 342 miles / 5 hours 15 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Brent’s Deli Northridge: 1,123 miles / 17 hours 33 mins to drive from Seattle | 31.9 miles / 42 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. We have listed seven hotels, seven restaurants, and five places to visit on the way. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope |this guide has helped make your road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles as enjoyable as possible.

Video: Los Angeles Road Trip

If you are looking for suggestions about the city of angels, you should check this video.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Seattle To Sacramento Road Trip: Breath-taking Views
• Yosemite National Park To Los Angeles Road Trip: Mesmerizing Views
• Seattle To Salt Lake City Road Trip: The Unforgettable Adventure

Hi, I'm Ece. Join me in navigating memorable road trips around the USA, Europe, and Australia. I provide valuable tips and destination guides, sometimes enhanced by AI. Let's hit the road and make memories!

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How to Travel from Los Angeles to Seattle by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

 TripSavvy /  Hilary Allison

Seattle —home of the Space Needle, the birthplace of grunge, and the unofficial capital of the Pacific Northwest—is 1,135 miles from Los Angeles . Unfortunately, unlike Dorothy’s green metropolis in  The Wizard of Oz , there is no Yellow Brick Road to travel to the real-life Emerald City (FYI, the year-round lushness in and around Seattle inspired its nickname.)

However, there are plenty of transportation options to get from LA to Seattle. Consider the pros and cons of each to decipher which form best suits your travel needs. The fastest option is obviously flying, which typically takes less than three hours and costs around $137 round trip. Flying, too, is the cheapest choice unless you're traveling one way. Booking in advance usually garners additional savings, as does waiting for a sale.

Don't forget a passport if you are planning to head into Canada. It’s a 2.5 hour drive to Vancouver. Many Alaskan cruises that begin in Seattle stop in British Columbia. 

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Los Angeles to Seattle?

Flying is easily the most convenient way to get to Seattle, which means more time on the ground enjoying the destination. The flight time varies, but nonstop flights are usually just shy of three hours. Obviously that does not take into consideration time spent getting to and from airports, delays/cancelations, checking and collecting baggage, or airport security lines, which can be heinous at both Los Angeles International Airport ( LAX ) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport AKA SeaTac ( SEA ) during peak travel times and holidays.

Flying from LA to Seattle is also the cheapest option. Most major carriers—including Delta, United, and American Airlines—service the route at LAX, with nonstop flights usually around $137 round trip. Budget carriers like Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit also head there daily, but don’t offer direct flights and nonsensically often cost more. The best bet is Alaska Airlines as they are based at SEA. LAX is also their hub. The result? There are on average 10 direct flights to Seattle on any given day at more often than not the best price. 

Other regional airports —which tend to service far fewer passengers each day than LAX and therefore offer a more tranquil travel experience—might be good alternative starting points. A couple nonstop Alaska flights take off from Burbank’s airport (BUR) every day, but are regularly $40 to $60 pricier. There’s a host of one-stop flights on Delta, United, and Southwest from there as well. You can also catch a few directs a day from the John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County. They are typically only slightly more expensive than LAX flights.

If you're planning to fly, keep in mind that it can be expensive to change flights and the price can skyrocket for last-minute trips.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

Operating out of the historic Union Station in downtown LA, Amtrak runs Coast Starlight trains to Seattle's King Stret Station in 33 hours, 46 minutes. As you travel by way of Sacramento and Portland, you’ll gaze out at the Pacific Ocean, farm-dotted valleys, lush forests, and the tall peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta. A coach seat starts around $99 one way, but a premium fare cabin—which is 100 percent refundable prior to departure, and comes with sleeping accommodations and meals—will likely run closer to $600.

Amtrak has a cheaper option, which will get you to Seattle in 29 hours. The fare usually costs between $99 (saver) to $419 (premium), though rates are higher on weekends and during holiday/summer seasons. However, this route is less scenic and involves a LA-to-Bakersfield bus segment. If you prefer the prettier option with a bedroom, you will likely have to book the trip much farther out. 

No matter which ticket you book, all levels come with two free checked bags and WiFi (of course, that’s if the train has service, which some long-haul trains still don’t). If you're looking to save, Amtrak has a free-to-join program  that rewards loyalty with chances to earn discounts and free trips. Keep checking their website for upcoming sales and promotions. 

Is There a Bus That Goes From to Los Angeles to Seattle?

If you have more than a day to burn—26 hours and 45 minutes to be exact—taking the Greyhound from the Seventh Street station in downtown Los Angeles to Seattle’s Royal Brougham Way station is an option. The express route has 15 stops—many are 10 minutes or less, meaning that passengers are not allowed to disembark—and usually requires overnight travel. Per person, a one-way ticket costs between $120 and $180, depending on the level of service (economy, economy extra, and flexible). Be careful not to accidentally pick the almost 28-hour-long route with 21 stops as it doesn't save time or money.

You will see more of the three states you pass through than on a plane, but unlike the train, the bus follows a strictly inland route so you won’t see the coast. New buses have WiFi, extra legroom, no dreaded middle seat, and a free checked bag. Greyhound claims traveling by bus is better for the environment than all motorized forms of transportation thanks to low-sulfur fuel, idle management systems, and diesel particulate filters. Free movies, TV, and games are available through the onboard entertainment system, which is currently on 71 percent of the fleet.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

The most direct route is 1,135 miles through three states via the I-5; it takes more than 17 hours, depending on how often you stop or whether you overnight somewhere. Traffic in the major metropolitan areas can also add significant time to the journey.

But a road trip can be a fairly economical choice, especially if you don’t need to rent a car or if you have a large group. It also buys travelers freedom. Unlike buses and trains, you call the shots. Stop when and where you want. Eat where you want. Grab a hotel and sleep in a real bed. Take detours and check extra adventures off the life list. The most common route, Interstate 5, takes drivers straight through Sacramento, Ashland (home of a fantastic Shakespeare festival), and foodie hotspot Portland. It also gets folks very close to Crater Lake National Park and multiple national forests, including Olympic, Mt. Hood, Lassen, and Klamath.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

As far as public transit goes, you have a few different options. You can take Sound Transit's Link Light Rail, which goes north to Westlake Center in downtown Seattle.

Sound Transit and King County Metro Transit buses serve SeaTac airport as well, and can each get you to downtown Seattle in about 45 minutes. You can pay in either cash or with an ORCA card. Pick up the Sound Transit express bus outside baggage claim, or the King County bus on International Boulevard. Check out our guide to public transportation in Seattle to learn more.

What Is There to Do in Seattle?

According to Visit Seattle, more than 40 million visitors flock to the Queen City of the Pacific Northwest annually. They go for super-fresh seafood, a vast craft beer and local spirits scene, endless outdoor activities, and cultural attractions like the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Pike Place Market, and MoPop. More itinerary-filling ideas can be found in our complete guide to the city . 

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

• ◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations. ◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”

3 things Braves need to fix after disastrous road trip against Mariners, Dodgers

By john buhler | may 6, 2024.

These things happen, but it doesn't change the fact that it is hard to swallow. The Atlanta Braves played some pretty terrible baseball vs. the Seattle Mariners and the Los Angeles Dodgers over the course of last week. Atlanta was lucky to win on getaway day in Seattle, but were unfortunately swept by their NL rivals at their place. The Braves find themselves at 20-12 on the season in a rough spot.

Fortunately for them, they don't face a team I would deem a serious World Series contender for a little over a month. A lot can change between now and then, but they won't be facing teams like Seattle, Los Angeles or Cleveland over the next little stretch. By the time they go to Baltimore in mid-June, maybe this team will have found its footing? Otherwise, is the come to Jesus moment imminent?

With Atlanta having a much-needed day off on Monday, here are three things I think the team needs to do ahead of their two-game home stand vs. the AL rival Boston Red Sox before they go to Queens to face the New York Mets over the weekend. Pretty much all of it is about fixing whatever is wrong with this club from the shoulders up. The talent is too good for the team to be playing this terribly.

These three potential solutions are not panacea, but I think they would do the Braves some good.

3. Don't let the quicksand snowball into something you cannot overcome

This is a bit hard to explain, but hear me out. One of the biggest things that I think has hurt the Braves since at least the Guardians series is Atlanta will let one bad event happen to them, and then allow that to impact another. We call this quicksand in the sports world, or the snowball effect in everything else, if you will. I think the Braves will need to do a better job of compartmentalizing going forward.

Where I have noticed it occur is to let a bad at-bat carry over to the field, as well as one bad pitch ruin the opposing team's next three plate appearances. I understand that the Braves are sort of going through it right now, but mental toughness will serve them in the end. Eventually, the headwinds will become tailwinds and Atlanta will be cruising to more victories than you can count later this summer.

If Atlanta can find a way to stop the bleeding, they won't be hemorrhaging by the end of the game.

2. Don't try to force things, just let the game come to you instead

This goes hand in hand with not stepping into quicksand and letting things snowball. Atlanta needs to play looser to break out of this bad, teamwide slump. I have seen instances where the offense is trying desperately to make things happen. Whether it is over-swinging when only a single is necessary, chasing bad pitches or trying to run when the does not require it, just slow down a bit, y'all.

When a talented team like the Braves is pressing, it is bad news for eveyone invovled. Baseball is a skill game, one of great strategy. You cannot go to the plate or the rubber and expect for good things to happen by trying to blow things up. Baseball does not reward you for trying to make something happen when it isn't there. Let the game come to you, and you'll be fine. Just have a little patience.

The way the Braves are going to get out of this is one game at a time, one pitch at a time, etc.

1. Relax, and take advantage of the softer schedule y'all have coming up

The best thing the Braves have going for them now is the schedule lightens up a bit. Cleveland, Seattle and Los Angeles are all playoff-caliber teams. The Dodgers are a lock, while the Guardians and Mariners certainly look like top-six teams in the American League. Atlanta will have to face teams like Boston, San Diego, Washington and the much-hated Mets soon, but these are winnable series.

Right now, Atlanta needs to relax and play with confidence, knowing that the Braves are probably better than the next several teams they will face over the next five weeks or so. Once the road series at Baltimore arrives, then you'll be ready. In the meantime, the Braves need to take advantage of this soft patch in their schedule and go from there. Many of these series will be played at Truist Park, too.

Expect for the Braves to burn the tape from the last few series and start anew vs. Boston on Tuesday.

Next. SL- Every MLB team's Mount Rushmore. Every MLB team's Mount Rushmore. dark

10-Day California National Park Road Trip Itinerary

• California is home to a variety of national parks, including 9 official national parks and a total of 28 national park units.
• A 10-day road trip through California is a great way to explore the highlights of the state, with stops at Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Yosemite, Pinnacles, Muir Woods, and Point Reyes.
• Each national park offers unique activities and experiences, from hiking and scenic drives to stargazing and exploring ghost towns. Visitors can also enjoy the diverse landscapes of California, from deserts and mountains to the coast.

California is a huge state with a variety of unique landscapes and vibrant cities. There are a number of scenic road trips to take through California , highlighting the coastline, the mountains, and everything in between.

Road trip travelers particularly enjoy visiting California’s national parks, which often mean two different things. When visitors think of national parks, they often jump to the 63 national parks throughout the US , 9 of which are in California. However, the National Park Service actually refers to all the protected areas managed by the NPS as national parks. With this in mind, there are actually 428 national park units in the US , including national monuments, national battlefields, national scenic byways, and national seashores. 28 of these national parks are in the scenic state of California.

While a 10-day national park road trip through California isn’t enough time to see all 28 national park units, or even the 9 national parks in California, it is plenty of time to explore the highlights of this great state. This 10-day California National Park road trip winds through deserts, mountains, and scenic beaches, highlighting many of the most famous landscapes in California. By focusing on the southern and central parts of the state, driving time (which can quickly get out of control in California) is mitigated, leaving more time for scenic stops along the drive.

Related: 10 National Park Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Day 1: Los Angeles To Joshua Tree National Park

Driving distance: 131 miles, time to drive: ~2.25 hours.

Los Angeles is one of the easiest starting points for a California road trip, with several international airports and direct access to the first California National Park road trip stop. The first day of the trip allows plenty of time to arrive in the Golden State before heading to Joshua Tree National Park, which is just over two hours away.

Joshua Tree National Park is a true can’t-miss road trip stop. Even those with just an hour or two can enjoy one of the short, easy hikes in Joshua Tree National Park . With so much scenery so close to the roads, Joshua Tree is the perfect first stop on what is sure to be a busy road trip.

About Joshua Tree National Park

• Park Hours: 24/7
• Entrance Fee: $30/vehicle
• Popular Things to Do at Joshua Tree National Park (Day 1): Scenic Drives, Stargazing, Easy Hiking Trails, Scenic Overlooks

Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park

Since the first day of the road trip can often be slowed down by flights, check-ins, and car rentals, the scenic part of the adventure may have to wait for day two. Thankfully, whether this is the first or second day exploring Joshua Tree National Park, travelers will have plenty to take in.

In addition to being one of the most scenic places in California, Joshua Tree National Park has a variety of activities to enjoy beyond hiking. Soaking in hot springs and stargazing are popular pastimes in this desert landscape.

Just 20 miles north of the park itself is a truly out-of-this-world experience. The Integratron is an upscale sound bath experience with an extraterrestrial past. Originally built to communicate with aliens, today, guests at the Integratron can enjoy a soothing sensory experience in the heart of the desert. Book well in advance; this place sells out quickly.

• Popular Things to Do at Joshua Tree National Park (Day 2): Hiking, Scenic Drives, Integratron Sound Bath, Stargazing, Hot Springs
• Integratron Fees: Shared Sound Bath from $55/person

The drive from Joshua Tree National Park to Death Valley National Park is about four hours. Those following this itinerary may want to drive to Death Valley National Park on the evening of day two in order to make the most of their day in Death Valley itself.

Day 3: Death Valley National Park

Driving distance: 228 miles, time to drive: ~4 hours.

Death Valley National Park may not have the most inviting name, but there is still something magical about visiting one of the hottest places on the planet . The second destination on a California National Park road trip, Death Valley, straddles the California/Nevada border.

In addition to the unique arid landscape, Death Valley National Park is home to several of the best hikes that lead to ghost towns in the US . With nine different ghost towns in Death Valley National Park , all preserved in the dry air, one could easily fill a day simply exploring the past.

About Death Valley National Park

• Popular Things to Do at Death Valley National Park: Hiking, Biking, Off-roading, Ghost Town Visits, Scenic Drives

Death Valley National Park’s roads were heavily damaged by Hurricane Hilary in August 2023 . As of December 2023, the park is open to visitors, but many of the roads remain closed for repairs. Check the map on the NPS Death Valley National Park website for current road conditions and closures.

Day 4: Sequoia And Kings Canyon National Parks

Driving distance: 302 miles, time to drive: ~5.5 hours.

With two national parks comes twice as much fun. The first day in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks involved driving there from Death Valley. Despite how close they look on the map, the roads necessitate a fairly big loop to get from the desert to the forests. As a result, approximately five and a half hours of this day of the California National Park road trip will be spent en route.

Thankfully, both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are worth the effort. Home to the biggest tree in the world, the famous General Sherman (in Sequoia National Park) , these parks are filled with literal giants. After spending the first three days of this road trip in some of the driest parts of California, a couple of days among the giant sequoias is the perfect change of pace.

About Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

• Park Hours: 24/7 (both parks)
• Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle (covers both parks)
• Popular Things to Do at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Hiking, Ranger-led Activities, Scenic Walks, General Sherman Viewing, General Grant Viewing

While Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are listed separately, their proximity means that they are easily visited together. Additionally, the $35 entrance fee covers admission to both parks for up to seven consecutive days.

Day 5: Sequoia And Kings Canyon National Parks

While driving is indeed a key part of an epic California National Park road trip, every good vacation needs a couple of days that move a little slower. Having done the drive the day before, day five of this trip is all about truly enjoying the forest.

There are plenty of things to do at both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks , including hiking, biking, taking a guided tour, or hopping back in the car for a scenic drive. Despite being located near the Sierra Nevadas, both parks are fairly mild in their climate, making them an ideal stop, even for a winter road trip through California.

While it comes second to General Sherman, the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park is just as magnificent to look at and frequently less crowded than its slightly bigger brother in Sequoia National Park.

Day 6: Yosemite National Park

Driving distance: 111 miles, time to drive: ~2.5 hours.

A California National Park road trip would not be complete without a couple days in California’s most visited national park. Yosemite National Park is a true spectacle, with towering pines, clear mountain lakes and rivers, and some of the most unusual granite formations in the world.

It takes just over two hours to get from Kings Canyon National Park to Yosemite National Park, leaving plenty of time to enjoy both scheduled days in this spectacular destination. The first day may be perfect for hiking the smaller trails or chasing some of the best waterfalls in Yosemite National Park . As this is a road trip, the scenic drives in Yosemite National Park are another perfect way to spend a day here.

About Yosemite National Park

• Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle
• Popular Things to Do at Yosemite National Park (Day 1): Short Hikes, Scenic Viewing, Waterfall Hikes, Scenic Drives

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Pitching A Tent & Camping In Yosemite National Park

Day 7: Yosemite National Park

Two days may feel like a long time to spend in one place on a short 10-day California National Park road trip, but a quick look around Yosemite National Park proves this place needs the extra time.

The second day in Yosemite National Park is the perfect time to schedule activities that require more advance planning. The Half Dome hikes, for instance, are one of the best hikes in the US and require a permit to complete. Additionally, those road tripping in February can make a reservation to see Yosemite’s famous Firefall .

Even those not interested in these scheduled activities can find plenty to do in and around Yosemite National Park. As part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, there are a number of amazing caves to explore near Yosemite National Park . The day’s adventures complete, guests can bundle up in one of the cabins or lodges inside the park grounds (or simply set up a tent!) before starting the final sprint of the California road trip.

• Popular Things to Do at Yosemite National Park (Day 2): Half Dome Hike, Firefall Drive or Hike, Cave Exploration, Ranger Programs, Scenic Drives, Hiking

Day 8: Pinnacles National Park

Driving distance: 173 miles, time to drive: ~3.5 hours.

If Yosemite National Park is the most visited national park in California, Pinnacles National Park may be one of the least visited. Pinnacles National Park is located near the coast of Central California, just three and a half hours from Yosemite.

Here, road trip travelers can marvel at the unique pinnacle rock formations as they hike, bike, and drive through the park. Those watching carefully may also notice some important feathered companions among the rocks. The California Condor, once effectively extinct in the wild, has made a major comeback, largely thanks to the sustainability efforts of US national parks like Pinnacles.

Today, Pinnacles National Park is one of the most important nesting grounds for this endangered bird, proving that this underrated destination deserves a day on the California national park road trip.

About Pinnacles National Park

• Park Hours: 24/7 (East Gate Only)
• Popular Things to Do at Pinnacles National Park: Hiking, Biking, Wildlife Viewing, Rock Climbing

Due to the fragile nature of the California Condor population, some parts of Pinnacles National Park are closed seasonally to protect nesting grounds. Always follow local signage to help protect these vulnerable animals.

Related: California Condor: Where To See One Of The World's Rarest Birds

Day 9: Muir Woods National Monument

Driving distance: 146 miles, time to drive: ~3 hours.

Along the coast near San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument is a serene coastal forest that serves as both an area of protection and research. With only ten days on this California national park road trip, going all the way north to Redwood National and State Parks may be unrealistic, so spending a day in Muir Woods National Monument, which also protects large groves of old-growth coastal redwoods, is a scenic alternative.

Muir Woods is particularly special thanks to its huge variety of hiking trails , ready for visitors of all ability levels. Located just fifteen minutes from San Francisco, one of the must-see stops on a cross-country road trip , travelers can easily spend their second-to-last day in both the wilderness and the big city.

About Muir Woods National Monument

• Park Hours: 8 am - Sunset
• Entrance Fee: $15/person
• Popular Things to Do at Muir Woods National Monument: Hiking, Scenic Drives, Wildlife Watching, Trip to San Francisco

Day 10: Point Reyes National Seashore

Driving distance: 23 miles, time to drive: ~1 hour.

This 10-day California National Park road trip starts in the middle of the desert and ends surrounded by the ocean, a true testament to the huge range of natural landscapes in California.

Point Reyes National Seashore offers some truly picturesque views for the end of the road trip.

Located just an hour from Muir Woods National Monument and San Francisco, Point Reyes has both classic sandy beaches to lounge on and crashing rocky shores to hike above. In fact, visitors can easily hike in Point Reyes National Seashore , which features 47 hiking trails, ranging from very easy to hard, so that everyone can explore the California coast in all its glory.

Whether enjoying a full day on the beach or catching one of the many Point Reyes National Seashore park programs , this national park road trip promises to end just as dramatically as it began.

About Point Reyes National Seashore

• Park Hours: 6am - 12am
• Entrance Fee: FREE
• Camping Fee: $30/night (1-6 people)
• Popular Things to Do at Point Reyes National Seashore: Hiking, Ranger Walks, Visit Point Reyes Lighthouse , Scenic Drives

President Joe Biden to visit Seattle this weekend

President biden to visit seattle on friday.

This Friday, President Biden will be visiting Seattle.

SEATTLE - President Joe Biden is expected to visit Seattle this weekend , with planned events happening on Friday and Saturday.

According to White House officials, President Joe Biden will participate in two campaign events in the Bay Area on Friday, May 10, before leaving from San Francisco to Seattle.

How long will President Biden be in Seattle?

The President is expected to be in Seattle for at least two days. He will land in Seattle on Friday, May 10, and he will participate in campaign receptions through Saturday, May 11.

The President could also participate in other events organized by the White House.

The exact time and location are not being announced, only given to attendees after they RSVP. White House officials say additional information will be released later.

Seattle's 520 Bridge to close this weekend, plus more traffic woes with Biden's visit

Get ready to pack your patience if you're planning a trip to and from Seattle and the Eastside this weekend.

Drivers might get caught in traffic as the President travels between the events on his schedule. Plan ahead if you are traveling near any of these locations throughout the day.

Will roads be shut down for Biden?

According to the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), "The U.S. Secret Service has the authority to provide security, including requiring intermittent closures of freeways and streets. The flow of buses and cars in downtown Seattle and around the region will be affected. While the President’s exact travel route and timing are not published in advance, travelers can still plan ahead by anticipating delays and temporary road closures."

You can stay updated by following our live traffic map and following King County Metro , SDOT Traffic , and WSDOT Traffic .

When was the last time President Biden visited Seattle?

President biden signs earth day executive order in seattle.

President Joe Biden delivered Earth Day remarks at Seward Park, Seattle Friday morning. Biden made his case to tackle the climate crisis, safeguard our nation’s forests, and discuss the impacts of wildfires.

The last time President Biden was in Seattle was Earth Day 2022.

On Friday, April 22, 2022, the President visited Seattle and met with local leaders to sign an executive order intended to help restore national forests devastated by wildfires, drought and blight, using an Earth Day visit to press for more action on the environment.

Biden also visited Green River College in Auburn, Washington to talk about efforts to bring down prescription drug costs for American families.

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