Coast to Coast Road Trip: The Best of Everything Along I-10

From the Pacific to the Atlantic, if you’re crossing the country through the southern part of the U.S., you’ll probably spend some time on Interstate 10.

From the Pacific to the Atlantic, if you’re crossing the country through the southern part of the U.S., you’re going to spend some time on Interstate 10.

Good thing, too, since I-10 takes you through some pretty awesome landscapes – the deserts of Southern California, Texas’ Hill Country, and the Florida Panhandle are all highlighted along the way. Whether you’re just hopping on for a little bit, or you’re seeing this bad boy all the way through, there’s tons to see and do just off the route!

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I-10 in California

Los Angeles, California, United States 

The I-10 road starts on the West Coast in Los Angeles. The sprawling City of Angels has so much to see and do that you could easily spend weeks exploring. Whether you want to go star-spotting in Hollywood, hope to find amazing tacos, or just want to relax on a sunny, palm tree-lined beach, spend at least a few hours knocking some classic L.A. activities off your bucket list such as: 

• Venice Beach Boardwalk
• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Santa Monica Pier
• Universal Studios

The notoriously strange Venice Beach Boardwalk is the perfect place to do some people watching. Spot surfers riding waves by the pier, weight-lifters pumping iron at Muscle Beach, and all kinds of interesting folks at the Venice Beach Freak Show. The carnival-like atmosphere also features kitschy shops, sandy beachfront, and plenty of food. Rent some rollerblades and soak it all in.

Tio’s Tacos Restaurant

There’s always time for tacos on I-10
3948 Mission Inn Ave. | Riverside | tiostacos1.com

On your way out of Los Angeles on I-10, make a quick detour to grab a bite to eat at Tio’s Tacos, a folk-art shrine with Mexican flair that’s also a delicious Mexican restaurant – they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, so you can satisfy your craving for great Mexican no matter the time of day.

Cabazon Dinosaurs

Iconic roadside destination
50700 Seminole Dr. | Cabazon | cabazondinosaurs.com

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are an iconic roadside attraction. The apatosaurus is named Ms. Dinny and the T. Rex is named Mr. Rex. Originally built to attract attention to a now-defunct restaurant, the massive dinos, which you can actually go inside, currently house exhibits on young Earth Creationism. Oh, and if they look familiar, it might be because they were prominently featured in the classic movie “Pee Wee’s Big Adventure”. Talk about a little slice of Americana!

The Saguaro

Spend a day pool-side
1800 E. Palm Canyon Dr. | Palm Springs | thesaguaro.com

Once you’re out of the L.A. area, you’ll find yourself near the quirky town of Palm Springs: book a stay at one of the stylish hotels in town, like retro-kitsch chic resort The Saguaro. The colorful rooms, luxurious spa treatments, and outstanding pool make this a decadent (and fun) getaway. They have cabanas and daybeds for rent along the pool as well!

Joshua Tree National Park

Take a Break from Cruising I-10 with Hiking, Biking, and Amazing Views
74485 National Park Dr. | Twentynine Palms | nps.gov/jotr

Stretch your legs after cruising I-10 with a hike at Joshua Tree National Park. It’s named for its trees (which are actually not really trees, but a funky-looking species of yucca), but the park has got some very cool geological stuff going on too. Hike out to Skull Rock for some rad climbing and boulder scrambling, and if you brought a tent, you can even set up camp here: there are also nine campgrounds inside the park. We suggest Black Rock Campground, Indian Cove, or Cottonwood Spring, since those are the only three with running water.

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I-10 in Arizona

Maricopa Manor Bed & Breakfast

Beautiful B&B Right Off Of Highway I-10
15 W. Pasadena Ave. | South Medlock Place | maricopamanor.com

After California, I-10 will take you into Arizona. If you need a place to pull off the Interstate and rest for the night, Maricopa Manor Bed and Breakfast is a gorgeous little gem. The six rooms all have different themes and loads of amenities, ranging from whirlpool tubs and fireplaces to balconies and stained-glass windows. Plus, the pool has an epic waterfall in it, and breakfast is delivered to your room in the morning, which is another bonus!

The Stand

3538 E. Indian School Rd. | Monte Vista Terrace | https://www.thestandbnt.com/

Road trips and burgers go hand-in-hand, but the grub you’ll find at The Stand in Phoenix is definitely not your average fast food fare. The patties are made fresh daily and topped with crisp, locally-grown veggies and other tasty accoutrements. 

Pro tip: their hand-spun milkshakes are to die for. Get the chocolate-chile if you’re feeling adventurous.

And if you need a hotel in Phoenix the Clarendon Hotel, the Zenyard Guesthouse and the Saguaro in Scottsdale are among the many excellent accommodation options.

Saguaro National Park

Take a moment to view some rare plants in this national park
3693 S. Old Spanish Trail | Tucson | nps.gov/sagu

The great thing about I-10 is that it passes through tons of natural beauty. Detour off and take a scenic cruise through Saguaro National Park. Saguaros are actually pretty fascinating as far as plants go. They can live for over 100 years and grow to be 20 feet tall, and they’re pretty rare, only native to certain parts of Mexico, California and Arizona.

There are some nice hotels in Tucson as well, we recommend:

• Cactus Cove B&B 
• Big Blue House Inn
• Catalina Park Inn B&B

Pima Air and Space Museum

If you’ve never seen an airplane boneyard, this is your chance!
6000 E. Valencia Rd. | Tucson | pimaair.org

The Pima Air and Space Museum is special not only because it’s one of the largest air and space museums in the country, housing more than 300 historically significant aircraft, but also because they have a deal with the nearby 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), also known as the world’s largest airplane boneyard. Call ahead and book tickets on a bus tour that will take you past more than 4,000 decommissioned planes.

Titan Missile Museum

Your opportunity to see an ICBM missile
1580 W. Duval Mine Rd. | Sahuarita | titanmissilemuseum.org

You’ll also pass by the epic Titan Missile Museum. The only remaining Titan II ICBM (there were once 54 across the country), this is the only place where you can get up-close and personal with a missile that could launch a 9-megaton nuclear warhead. If that’s not totally epic, then I don’t know what is.

Big Nose Kate’s Saloon

A real Old West town
417 E. Allen St. | Tombstone | bignosekatestombstone.com

A quick detour off I-10 will take you to the kitschy historical town of Tombstone, where the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place. Stop by Big Nose Kate’s to grab a bite to eat in a historic Wild West saloon. This town is also known to have a lot of paranormal activity, so enter if you dare!

The Thing

What is the Thing?
2631 N. Johnson Rd. | Dragoon | bowlinsthething.com

Also make a stop by The Thing, an old-school roadside stop that calls to mind the quirky attractions of years gone by- right down to the billboards lining the Interstate, asking “WHAT IS ‘THE THING’?” Sure, it’s a little cheesy, but it’s only $2 to enter and have your mind blown by… whatever it is. The perfect place to stop and stretch your legs and have a little fun too.

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I-10 in New Mexico

City of Rocks State Park

Hike during the day and rest up at a historic B&B
327 Hwy 61 | Faywood | emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/cityofrocksstatepark

Then, the interstate will take you through a short portion of New Mexico. You won’t be here long, but you can stop by the gorgeous desert landscapes of City of Rocks State Park. Rocks and boulders, shaped by the forces of nature into hoodoos and pinnacles, reach nearly 40 feet tall, and make for a striking landscape to hike through.

Spend the night soaking up some New Mexico culture at the Lundeens Inn of The Arts; each room in this B&B (located in a historic, 100-year-old building) is named for an artist and decorated with Southwestern flair.

Dripping Springs Natural Area

Explore the wildlife of New Mexico
15000 Dripping Springs Rd. | Las Cruces | blm.gov/visit

New Mexico is also home to Dripping Springs Natural Area. Here, you’ll find piñon and juniper lining the easy, well-marked trails, which offer the chance to see all kinds of desert wildlife, like golden eagles, mule deer, hawks, quail, lizards, and even mountain lions.

White Sands Missile Range Museum

Get your fill of U.S. military history
Wsmr P Rte. 1 | White Sands | wsmr-history.org

Located on the grounds of the White Sands Missile Range military installation (one of the largest in the country), the White Sands Missile Range Museum is full of information about the United States’ nuclear program, our space adventures, and our development of rocket technology.

The museum is nice, but the Missile Park is where you’ll snap your photos. The park has roughly 60 different rockets all used by the U.S. in combat between WWII and the Gulf War. They’ve got a Loon (the U.S. version of the V-1), a Pershing II, a Patriot, and even a V-2.

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I-10 in Texas

Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

This Texas park has some amazing rock climbing opportunities
6900 Hueco Tanks Rd. No. 1 |  El Paso | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/hueco-tanks

The rocky hills at Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site make for some world-class climbing, but even if you aren’t a rock-climbing pro, you can still appreciate this uniquely Texas park. It’s known for its pools of water found in the granite formations: they can be home to toads, shrimp, and all kinds of other interesting wildlife.

And, since you’re in the area, consider finding a hotel in El Paso. We recommend:

• Hilton Garden Inn
• Marriott El Paso
• Courtyard El Paso

Chico’s Tacos

You’ve got to try these Texas tacos
3401 Dyer St. | El Paso | facebook.com/Chicos-Tacos

A full third of the I-10 route is located through Texas: the road crosses the Lone Star State at its widest part. Grab some cheap, quick grub at local favorite Chico’s Tacos as you swing through El Paso. Expect to find deep-fried taco deliciousness smothered in tomato sauce and topped with a healthy dose of shredded cheese: it’s nothing fancy, but it hits the spot.

Balmorhea State Park

Take a dip in the world’s largest spring-fed pool at Balmorhea State Park.
9207 Texas 17 | Toyahvale | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/balmorhea

The pool itself is 1.75 acres big and holds 3.5 million gallons of water – so it’s definitely Texas-sized.

It’s fed by the San Solomon Springs, which pump 15 million gallons of fresh, pure spring water into the pool every day – so it’s all natural and not chlorinated. The pool is up to 25 feet deep in some places, which makes it perfect for snorkeling or skin and scuba diving, if a casual dip in the more shallow parts or doing jack knives off the diving board isn’t quite doing it for you. Plus, since the water stays around 72 to 76 degrees naturally, it’s refreshingly cool during the hot summers, but not so cold that you have to worry about it being too frigid to jump right in to.

They offer camping and an old-school motor lodge onsite as well, so if you find yourself staying longer than planned here, you can make a day of it.

Fort Lancaster State Historic Site

Take a trip back in time
629 Fort Lancaster Rd. | Sheffield | thc.texas.gov

Then go back in time to the 1850’s at Fort Lancaster State Historic Site. Here, you can explore the ruins of more than 25 buildings that once served as a rest stop for mail carriers and settlers in the mid-19th century. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the fact that you can road trip I-10 in a car, instead of in a horse-drawn wagon.

Caverns of Sonora

Here’s your chance to find some gold!
1711 Pr 4468 | Sonora | cavernsofsonora.com

Stretching your legs on a road trip is super important, so get out of the car and head underground to the cool Caverns of Sonora for a change of scenery. This stunning show cave offers tours of the tunnels, loaded with stunning rock formations, as well as hikes above ground, the chance to pan for gold, and homemade fudge at the ranch-style gift shop.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Your place for amusement park fun
17000 IH-10 W | San Antonio | sixflags.com/fiestatexas

Just outside San Antonio, you’ll find Six Flags Fiesta Texas, a massively popular theme park with tons of thrills. With rollercoasters like Superman: Krypton Coaster, Pandemonium, and Goliath, to drop towers, log flume rides, bumper cars, and tons more, everyone is sure to find something. Even those afraid of rollercoasters can enjoy food, games, and a live show. Visit Site

San Antonio, Texas, United States

Home to the Alamo, and so much more!
San Antonio | visitsanantonio.com

I-10 passes through the city of San Antonio, and it’s worth it to take a day or so to explore this Lone Star City. Home to The Alamo, the Tower of the Americas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The Institute of Texan Cultures, the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, tons of museums, incredible Tex-Mex food, and more, it’s a prime example of Texas at its finest.

Oh, and stay the night at the Menger Hotel, Hotel Havana, Omni La Mansion del Rio, or one of the other great hotels in San Antonio. San Antonio is a city full of history, so take a couple of days to explore.

San Antonio River Walk

It’s the boardwalk of the Lone Star State
Downtown San Antonio | thesanantonioriverwalk.com

One of the coolest parts of San Antonio is the city’s River Walk. Lining the banks of the San Antonio River, you’ll find restaurants, shops, museums, parks, and tons more. Tour the river from a boat, or spend an evening strolling along the River Walk taking in the views. Stop by the Luke Restaurant for modern Cajun-inspired cuisine, Little Rhine Steakhouse for old-school eats, and explore even more shops and restaurants.

The Alamo

Remember the Alamo!
300 Alamo Plaza | San Antonio | thealamo.org

The Mission San Antonio de Valero, better known as The Alamo, is a fort where Spanish missionaries and Native Americans lived. It’s most famous for being the site where a band of Texans held out against the army of General Santa Anna. Even though the Alamo fell, “Remember the Alamo” became a rallying cry for the Texan Army, who eventually won independence. Today, The Alamo is a look into the past, and is an interesting spot to visit.

Hotel Havana

Why not stay at a historic boutique hotel?
1015 Navarro St. | San Antonio | havanasanantonio.com

If you need a place to spend the night in San Antonio, check out the Hotel Havana. It’s a sleek boutique hotel right on the RiverWalk, and you won’t find a cozier place to stay while exploring the city. Located in a 1914-era building within walking distance of most of San Antonio’s most popular spots, it’s got an airy, old-school vibe and a great onsite restaurant.

After San Antonio, you’ll be driving into Texas’s Hill Country. New Braunfels is a quaint little settlement that evokes small town Texas charm. Grab a bite to eat at local favorite Granzin Bar-BQ: get their delicious smoked meats as a plate, on a sandwich, or even in a taco. The sausage, brisket and turkey are especially tasty. Finish it off with a big glass of sweet tea and a few sides.

Black’s Barbecue

One of the best barbecues in Texas
3110 Guadalupe St. | Lockhart | blacksbbq.com

If you somehow still have an appetite after chowing down at Granzin, head to Lockhart to sample the food at Black’s Barbecue. The atmosphere is super authentic; it’s been around since 1932, making it one of the oldest BBQ joints in Texas. The beef ribs, brisket, homemade sausage, and chicken are especially delicious, and make sure to save room for sides and banana pudding. Bonus: you can buy bottles of their signature sauces so you can bring home a taste of Texas.

Houston, Texas, United States

Welcome to the big city
Houston | visithoustontexas.com

Welcome to Houston, y’all. The city is a cultural hub for the state, and features tons to see and do. From the hugely popular Space Center Houston to the National Museum of Funeral History, it’s got attractions that range from classic to quirky. And, if you’re really looking to get an authentic Texas experience, head to the Houston Rodeo.

Space Center Houston

Houston we have lift off
1601 E. Nasa Parkway | Clear Lake | spacecenter.org

One of Houston’s most popular attractions is the totally rad Space Center Houston. This is the official visitor center for Johnson Space Center, the home of “Mission Control” for numerous historic spaceflight programs like the Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle missions. It’s also where astronauts train for missions to space, and where loads of important research happens. Space Center Houston is loaded with artifacts (like moon rocks and spacesuits), educational exhibits, tours, and an epic gift shop.

Aloft

A different side of Texas
820 Fannin St. | Downtown Houston | marriott.com

The sleek, modern Aloft hotel in Houston stands in stark contrast to the normal, rustic/country aesthetic you see all across Texas, which is kind of nice. Cozy, minimalist rooms, free wifi, and an awesome pool add to the experience.

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I-10 in Louisiana

Mardi Gras Museum

Celebrate Fat Tuesday year round
1010 Conti St. | New Orleans | mardigrasworld.com

Louisiana is best known for the wild Mardi Gras celebrations that New Orleans hosts each year. The festivities, which include numerous parades, intricate costumes, and plenty of food and drink, attract tons of people each spring. In nearby Lake Charles, the Mardi Gras Museum is a great place to learn about this colorful tradition, no matter the time of year. Video footage, costumes, historical background information, and even a parade float that you can climb on give visitors a good sense of what Mardi Gras in New Orleans is like.

The French Press

A sophisticated food stop
214 E. Vermillion St. | Lafayette | thefrenchpresslafayette.com

If you’re starting to tire of the burger-laden menus of most road food joints, make a stop at The French Press. They do a classy, French/Southern-inspired breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Sunday, and chic dinners on Friday and Saturday nights. Think Cajun Eggs Benedict, cream cheese and banana-stuffed French toast, and biscuit sliders stuffed with brie and bacon.

Champagnes Swamp Tour

See the swamp up close and personal
1151 Rookery Rd. | Breaux Bridge | champagnesswamptours.com

Driving through the swampy wetlands of Louisiana is an experience, but actually getting to explore out on the water is another thing entirely. On the two-hour adventure at Champagnes Swamp Tour, you’ll get to see all kinds of wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem of the swamp, right in the heart of it all. It doesn’t get any more Cajun than that.

USS Kidd Veterans Memorial & Museum

Tour a retired destroyer
305 S. River Rd. | Baton Rouge | usskidd.com

Step back in time on the USS Kidd, a ship that served in WWII and in the Korean War. The Fletcher-class destroyer is docked in downtown Baton Rouge, and is open as a floating museum, so you can walk the decks and see objects from the battles in which she served. Take in the views of the Mississippi from the ship, and reflect on those who lost their lives serving our country at the Memorial.

Historic Michabelle Inn

A house fit for a Southern belle
1106 S. Holly St. | Hammond | michabelle.com

Take a page from Scarlett O’Hara’s book (you are in the South, after all) and book a room in the charming Greek Revival mansion-turned-hotel at the Historic Michabelle Inn. There are eight unique rooms in the main home, and suites in Creole cottages on the property as well, for those who want extra privacy. Expect a healthy dose of Southern hospitality to go with the antebellum setting.

Abita Mystery House

This odd museum is worth a visit
22275 Hwy 36 | Abita Springs | abitamysteryhouse.com

One place you must stop off and visit along I-10 is the Abita Mystery House. This famously offbeat attraction has collections of antique oddities, folk art awesomeness, and loads more. This look inside the mind of an outsider art genius will likely be the best $3 you’ll spend on the trip.

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I-10 in Mississippi

Biloxi Lighthouse

A museum like no other
Hwy 90 and Porter Ave. | Biloxi | biloxi.ms.us

Built in 1848, the Biloxi Lighthouse has withstood countless hurricanes and storms (including a tidal surge from Hurricane Katrina) to light the Gulf of Mexico’s Mississippi Sound. The much-beloved lighthouse is open for tours, and has a little museum dedicated to its unique history. Fun fact: this lighthouse has spent more time under the care of female keepers than any other in the country.

Gulf Islands National Seashore Park

Some prime photo opportunities
3500 Park Rd. | Ocean Springs | nps.gov/guis

Next, take a moment to enjoy the white sand beaches and blue-green water you’ve been driving alongside at Gulf Islands National Seashore Park. Stretching from Mississippi into Florida, this preserve protects historic sites, wildlife, and lovely natural beauty. The Davis Bayou area is the only part of the park in Mississippi that’s accessible by car, so stop by and check out the views.

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I-10 in Alabama

Mobile, Alabama, United States

Mobile, Alabama, United States
Beautiful city with a view of the Gulf | Mobile | mobile.org

The next major city you’ll hit is Mobile, AL. Take some time to explore all that this town has to offer. The Azalea City is loaded with history (see the Oakleigh Historic Complex and Fort Conde), attractions (the Dauphin Island Sea Lab is awesome), and food (Wintzell’s Oyster House is a classic, and Mama’s on Dauphin serves up great Southern cookin’). Stay the night at the Battle House, Fort Conde Inn, the Malaga Inn, or one of the other hotels in Mobile.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park

Make time for a tour of this battleship
2307 Battleship Parkway | Mobile | ussalabama.com

Visit the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park for some insane military history at one of the country’s most notable battleships. Here, you can also find the USS Drum, which is a submarine, as well as loads of historic aircraft. Kids and history buffs will definitely want to spend some time exploring, and even those who aren’t super familiar with military history will likely be blown away by the display.

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I-10 in Florida

Coffee Cup Restaurant

A great spot to grab some old fashioned breakfast
520 E. Cervantes St. | Pensacola | facebook.com/Coffee-Cup-Restaurant

Grab breakfast at the retro Coffee Cup Restaurant. It’s bustling pretty much any time of the day, features an old-fashioned menu and decor, and makes an absolutely to-die-for breakfast. Order the grits and the deep-fried French toast for a delicious start to your day.

Florida Caverns State Park

Exploring these caves should be on your list
3345 Caverns Rd. | Marianna | floridastateparks.org

See a lesser-known side of the Sunshine State at Florida Caverns State Park. This dry cave is the only cave in any Florida state park that you can tour, and contains stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, flowstones, and more. Plus, there’s a spring for boating and fishing, a 9-hole golf course, and camping here as well.

Governor’s Inn

Elegant hotel perfect for one night or many
209 S. Adams St. | Tallahassee | govinntallahassee.com

Need a comfy place to spend the night? Located right in the middle of downtown Tallahassee (and conveniently near tons of restaurants, shops, and attractions) the Governors Inn is a charmingly vintage hotel that makes for a great place to stay the night after an evening of exploring the city. It’s swanky, and is definitely one of the cooler hotels in Tallahassee.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Take some time to explore this state park
12087 SW US 27 | Fort White | floridastateparks.org

And as you drive through Florida, definitely don’t miss out on Ichetucknee Springs State Park (they have awesome tubing, swimming, and manatee-spotting opportunities) on your way to your final destination: Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Beach

Soak up the sun at Jacksonville’s beaches
503 1st St. N. | Jacksonville | jacksonvillebeach.org

And what’s a trip to Florida without a visit to the beach? The Jacksonville Beach is pretty great: it’s got a huge, free parking lot, clean shores, and plenty of shops nearby. Set up a towel on the sand and do some people watching, walk down the pier, or dip your toes in the water. Visit Site

Casa Marina

An eclectic and historical hotel
691 1st St. N | Jacksonville | casamarinahotel.com

The colorful decor, hacienda architecture, and beach views make this the perfect place to spend your night in Jacksonville. Built in 1925, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, and it only has 23 rooms, so it never gets overly loud and crowded.

Jacksonville, Florida, United States

Perfect city for beachy vibes
Jacksonville | visitjacksonville.com

Jacksonville is a sprawling coastal city that has a special, beachy, “Florida vacation” vibe throughout the bustling metropolis. You can get the best of both worlds here – city and beach. Zoos, beaches, pro sports teams, parks, and cultural institutions can all be explored in Jacksonville, depending on what your idea of the perfect vacation is.

There’s Plenty to Do and See on an I-10 Road Trip… Don’t Miss a Thing!

From the Pacific Coast to the Atlantic Ocean, a trip along the entirety of I-10 means crossing through America’s deserts, hill country, swamplands, small towns, and big cities. One simple interstate can show you all different sides to America: landscapes, cultures, cuisines and attractions that are all distinct, yet distinctly American.

What’s your favorite stop along I-10? Let us know by tagging us on Twitter.

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