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Road trip from New York to Santa Cruz
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Sights & Landmarks
Nature & Parks
Water & Amusement Parks
Museums
Fun & Games
Nightlife
Food & DrinkShow more (4+)
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Concerts & Shows
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ITINERARY
52h 34m2,973 miles33 stops
1
BrainXcape
2
The Blue Bar, Algonquin Hotel
Comfortable and classic, the lounge of the Algonquin Hotel is a New York landmark.
3
Mack Trucks Historical Museum
4
Allentown Rose Gardens
5
Marine Corps League NE Detachment Museum
6
Steamtown National Historic Site
This small museum is all about steam engines and their contribution to America's economy in the 19th century.
7
Hollywood Gaming Mahoning Valley Race Course
8
Paladin Brewing
9
Lock 3
10
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Headquartered in a boldly designed building on Lake Erie's shore, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 150,000-square-foot museum featuring ever-changing exhibits documenting the history of rock and roll, from Elvis to our days. You’ll see hundreds of original artifacts, from Jimi Hendrix outfits to The Beatles’ handwritten lyrics. Experience the excitement of a Rock Hall induction night at the Power of Rock Experience or have your very own jam session at the Garage. You can also watch a concert while you're here, so check out the Rock Hall’s schedule and plan ahead. – Tripadvisor
11
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
12
Michigan Avenue Bridge
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
13
Boystown
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
14
Wrigley Field
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
15
What Lifts You Mural
You can find one of the town’s most famous photo ops in The Gulch neighborhood—a pair of intricate white lace wings against a black wall. There's usually a line, so go early in the morning or late in the day for fewer crowds. Try to find the easter eggs that the artist put into the mural: a cowboy hat, guitars, and barbecues to represent Nashville. Explore other street art in Nashville on a mural art tour—you'll see lots of other great sights, with plenty of time for photo ops.
16
Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra
17
Endless Brews
We are a bottle shop & craft beer bar with 20 taps and over 300 select bottles and cans for carry-out.
18
German American Heritage Center
19
Fitness Sports
Iowa's first Specialty Running & Walking store with a emphasis on personal service. Ou r stone motto is "Where You have the Right to B-Fit". Est. in 1984.
20
Hot Shops Art Center
21
Hollywood Candy
Hollywood Candy is a giant candy store proudly serving Omaha’s Old Market since 2007. We offer a large selection of housemate chocolate candy including our chocolate covered bacon, chocolate potato chips, candy cookie pops and our famous Peanut Butter Surprise. We have all flavors or Jelly Belly jelly beans and a large selection of M&M’s. We offer the largest selection of bulk candy in the area including hard to find retro brands, favorite brands like Hershey’s and Oreo, rock candy, gummies, sour candy, and lollipops. Our Soda Shoppe offers over 200 varieties of familiar and unique soda brands. We have the largest collection of PEZ dispensers for everyone to enjoy plus a large assortment for sale.
22
Fun Plex
23
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park
24
Red Butte Garden
Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West and, together with the University of Utah, is the state arboretum. The Garden has welcomed guests since 1985 and consists of over 21 acres of developed gardens and five miles of hiking trails winding through an extensive Natural Area. All just minutes away from downtown Salt Lake City. The Garden is renowned for plant collections, themed gardens, over 560,000 springtime blooms, gorgeous private rental spaces, a world-class summer concert series, and award-winning horticulture-based educational programs.
25
Sugar House Park
Once the site of Utah Territorial Prison, this park is a lot more pleasant today, with a gently rolling landscape great for running.
26
Great Salt Lake
This 20,000 square mile lake, the second saltiest in the world, is also a wildlife refuge attracting millions of migratory birds every year to the ten islands within it.
27
Ryan's Saloon & Broiler
28
Wilbur D. May Center
MUSEUM/ GIFT SHOP/ ARBORETUM/ EVENT VENUE/ The Wilbur D. May Center is located in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park at 1595 North Sierra, Reno, Nevada. The Wilbur D. May Museum features rotating exhibits for the whole family, smaller art shows, the permanent collection of Wilbur May's travels around the globe, an adjoining botanical garden, and plays home to many events throughout the year such as weddings, executive fundraisers, and educational seminars.
29
Enchambered: Sacramento Escape Room
Real Escape games let you live the game. We have real-life escape games where teams of 3-12 people are locked into a custom built, challenging and entertaining environments to solve the many mysteries, puzzles and challenges. You need to unlock the final clues to open the door and escape the room. Escape Rooms are fun for all ages.
30
Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
31
St. Patrick Catholic Church
32
Funderland Amusement Park
Historic Funderland Amusement Park is now open for its 2024 78th Anniversary season! First opened in 1946, Funderland continues to delight generations of Northern California families. Located on two lovely acres in Sacramento's beautiful 100+ year-old William Land Park, Funderland features ten child-sized amusement rides and attractions (nine of which children can also share and ride with their parents and grandparents!), four fun photo ops (perfect for family group shots!), a FunderTreats concession stand featuring delicious food, amusement park treats, and drinks, and plenty of big, mature shade trees! Funderland offers families a delightful day outside in welcoming and comfortable surroundings, and is also the perfect place to have your next birthday party, fundraiser, group, or corporate event! Parking is always free, and Funderland's one-price Gate Admission gives guests of all ages both entry to the park AND unlimited rides for the entire day!
33
Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center
Open to the public, the Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. Visitors can walk through the colorful gardens lined with towering palm trees, sit by the fountains and cascading waterfall, enjoy the beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay Area, and feel the peace of the grounds. While you're there, you can take a guided tour at the Visitors' Center, learn more about you're family's history at the FamilySearch Library, and attend events at the Temple Hill Auditorium. Only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can enter the temple itself. A coveted location for photographers, the Oakland Temple is one of the best locations to enjoy a sunset over the Bay. At night, the Oakland Temple is brightly lit and can be seen throughout the Bay Area. Devotionals, concerts, and performances are hosted throughout the month in the Temple Hill Auditorium and most events are free.
Customize this Trip
OVERVIEW
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure from the bustling metropolis of New York to the laid-back surf haven of Santa Cruz. This epic journey will take you across the vast landscapes of the United States, showcasing a kaleidoscope of diverse cultures, breathtaking scenery, and iconic landmarks.
Along the way, you'll traverse the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, marvel at the towering skyscrapers of Chicago, and feel the pulse of the Midwest as you pass through Iowa and Nebraska. The mighty Mississippi River will guide your path, its meandering waters a constant companion. As you venture west, the Great Plains will stretch out before you, offering endless vistas and a sense of boundless freedom.
Finally, as you approach the Pacific coast, the terrain will transform into a picturesque tapestry of redwood forests, rolling hills, and pristine beaches. The salty tang of the ocean air will invigorate your senses, and the sound of crashing waves will soothe your soul. Embrace the vibrant spirit of Santa Cruz, where surfers ride the waves and the bohemian vibe permeates the air. This unforgettable journey will create memories that will last a lifetime, leaving you with a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of America.
1
Start:BrainXcape
New York City, New York·
5.0
(99) review
160 Broadway 3rd Fl, New York City, NY 10038
2
Start:The Blue Bar, Algonquin Hotel
New York City, New York·
4.0
(99) review
Comfortable and classic, the lounge of the Algonquin Hotel is a New York landmark.
3
Start:Mack Trucks Historical Museum
Allentown, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(95) review
2402 Lehigh Pkwy S, Allentown, PA 18103-2900
4
Start:Allentown Rose Gardens
Allentown, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(78) review
3000 Parkway Blvd, Allentown, PA 18104-5327
5
Start:Marine Corps League NE Detachment Museum
Scranton, Pennsylvania·
5.0
(8) review
1340 Alder Street, Scranton, PA
6
Start:Steamtown National Historic Site
Scranton, Pennsylvania·
4.5
(902) review
This small museum is all about steam engines and their contribution to America's economy in the 19th century.
7
Start:Hollywood Gaming Mahoning Valley Race Course
Youngstown, Ohio·
3.5
(83) review
655 N Canfield Niles Rd, Youngstown, OH 44515-1102
8
Start:Paladin Brewing
Austintown, Youngstown, Ohio·
4.5
(9) review
6520 Mahoning Ave, Austintown, Youngstown, OH 44515-2012
9
Start:Lock 3
Akron, Ohio·
4.5
(98) review
200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308-1315
10
Start:Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland, Ohio·
4.5
(9964) review
Headquartered in a boldly designed building on Lake Erie's shore, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 150,000-square-foot museum featuring ever-changing exhibits documenting the history of rock and roll, from Elvis to our days. You’ll see hundreds of original artifacts, from Jimi Hendrix outfits to The Beatles’ handwritten lyrics. Experience the excitement of a Rock Hall induction night at the Power of Rock Experience or have your very own jam session at the Garage. You can also watch a concert while you're here, so check out the Rock Hall’s schedule and plan ahead. – Tripadvisor
11
Start:Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Fort Wayne, Indiana·
4.0
(99) review
4000 Parnell Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1414
12
Start:Michigan Avenue Bridge
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(985) review
The view from the bridge is one of the best vistas the city has to offer.
13
Start:Boystown
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(98) review
Located in Chicago's North Side, this vibrant neighborhood is known for its exciting nightlife and for being one of the largest LGBTQIA+ communities in the city. It's the host of the annual Chicago Pride Parade, and a must-see in the area is the Legacy Walk on Halsted Street, where you can learn about the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while admiring the colorful street art and rainbow crosswalks. Check out the unique shops and then grab a bite at one of the area's delicious Thai or Mexican restaurants. At night, visit one of the neighborhood's bars to enjoy a drag show, concert, and tasty cocktail. Consider taking a food or walking tour of Chicago that stops by Boystown. – Tripadvisor
14
Start:Wrigley Field
Chicago, Illinois·
4.5
(9953) review
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall.
15
Start:What Lifts You Mural
Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee·
4.5
(83) review
You can find one of the town’s most famous photo ops in The Gulch neighborhood—a pair of intricate white lace wings against a black wall. There's usually a line, so go early in the morning or late in the day for fewer crowds. Try to find the easter eggs that the artist put into the mural: a cowboy hat, guitars, and barbecues to represent Nashville. Explore other street art in Nashville on a mural art tour—you'll see lots of other great sights, with plenty of time for photo ops.
16
Start:Quad Cities Symphony Orchestra
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(8) review
327 Brady St, Davenport, IA 52801-1508
17
Start:Endless Brews
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(9) review
We are a bottle shop & craft beer bar with 20 taps and over 300 select bottles and cans for carry-out.
18
Start:German American Heritage Center
Davenport, Iowa·
4.5
(84) review
712 W 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52802-1410
19
Start:Fitness Sports
Des Moines, Iowa·
5.0
(9) review
Iowa's first Specialty Running & Walking store with a emphasis on personal service. Ou r stone motto is "Where You have the Right to B-Fit". Est. in 1984.
20
Start:Hot Shops Art Center
Omaha, Nebraska·
4.5
(96) review
13th & Nicholas, Omaha, NE 68102
21
Start:Hollywood Candy
Omaha, Nebraska·
4.0
(99) review
Hollywood Candy is a giant candy store proudly serving Omaha’s Old Market since 2007. We offer a large selection of housemate chocolate candy including our chocolate covered bacon, chocolate potato chips, candy cookie pops and our famous Peanut Butter Surprise. We have all flavors or Jelly Belly jelly beans and a large selection of M&M’s. We offer the largest selection of bulk candy in the area including hard to find retro brands, favorite brands like Hershey’s and Oreo, rock candy, gummies, sour candy, and lollipops. Our Soda Shoppe offers over 200 varieties of familiar and unique soda brands. We have the largest collection of PEZ dispensers for everyone to enjoy plus a large assortment for sale.
22
Start:Fun Plex
Omaha, Nebraska·
3.5
(92) review
7003 Q St, Omaha, NE 68117-1649
23
Start:The Farm at Lee Martinez Park
Fort Collins, Colorado·
4.5
(93) review
600 N Sherwood St, Fort Collins, CO 80521-2061
24
Start:Red Butte Garden
Salt Lake City, Utah·
4.5
(925) review
Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West and, together with the University of Utah, is the state arboretum. The Garden has welcomed guests since 1985 and consists of over 21 acres of developed gardens and five miles of hiking trails winding through an extensive Natural Area. All just minutes away from downtown Salt Lake City. The Garden is renowned for plant collections, themed gardens, over 560,000 springtime blooms, gorgeous private rental spaces, a world-class summer concert series, and award-winning horticulture-based educational programs.
25
Start:Sugar House Park
Salt Lake City, Utah·
4.5
(99) review
Once the site of Utah Territorial Prison, this park is a lot more pleasant today, with a gently rolling landscape great for running.
26
Start:Great Salt Lake
Salt Lake City, Utah·
4.0
(987) review
This 20,000 square mile lake, the second saltiest in the world, is also a wildlife refuge attracting millions of migratory birds every year to the ten islands within it.
27
Start:Ryan's Saloon & Broiler
Reno, Nevada·
4.5
(9) review
924 S Wells Ave, Reno, NV 89502-2522
28
Start:Wilbur D. May Center
Reno, Nevada·
4.5
(97) review
MUSEUM/ GIFT SHOP/ ARBORETUM/ EVENT VENUE/ The Wilbur D. May Center is located in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park at 1595 North Sierra, Reno, Nevada. The Wilbur D. May Museum features rotating exhibits for the whole family, smaller art shows, the permanent collection of Wilbur May's travels around the globe, an adjoining botanical garden, and plays home to many events throughout the year such as weddings, executive fundraisers, and educational seminars.
29
Start:Enchambered: Sacramento Escape Room
Sacramento, California·
5.0
(98) review
Real Escape games let you live the game. We have real-life escape games where teams of 3-12 people are locked into a custom built, challenging and entertaining environments to solve the many mysteries, puzzles and challenges. You need to unlock the final clues to open the door and escape the room. Escape Rooms are fun for all ages.
30
Start:Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
Sacramento, California·
4.0
(98) review
1200 Front St, Sacramento, CA 95814-3247
31
Start:St. Patrick Catholic Church
San Francisco, California·
4.0
(98) review
756 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103-3113
32
Start:Funderland Amusement Park
Sacramento, California·
4.0
(99) review
Historic Funderland Amusement Park is now open for its 2024 78th Anniversary season! First opened in 1946, Funderland continues to delight generations of Northern California families. Located on two lovely acres in Sacramento's beautiful 100+ year-old William Land Park, Funderland features ten child-sized amusement rides and attractions (nine of which children can also share and ride with their parents and grandparents!), four fun photo ops (perfect for family group shots!), a FunderTreats concession stand featuring delicious food, amusement park treats, and drinks, and plenty of big, mature shade trees! Funderland offers families a delightful day outside in welcoming and comfortable surroundings, and is also the perfect place to have your next birthday party, fundraiser, group, or corporate event! Parking is always free, and Funderland's one-price Gate Admission gives guests of all ages both entry to the park AND unlimited rides for the entire day!
33
Start:Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center
Oakland, California·
5.0
(940) review
Open to the public, the Oakland California Temple & Visitors' Center is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. Visitors can walk through the colorful gardens lined with towering palm trees, sit by the fountains and cascading waterfall, enjoy the beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay Area, and feel the peace of the grounds. While you're there, you can take a guided tour at the Visitors' Center, learn more about you're family's history at the FamilySearch Library, and attend events at the Temple Hill Auditorium. Only members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can enter the temple itself. A coveted location for photographers, the Oakland Temple is one of the best locations to enjoy a sunset over the Bay. At night, the Oakland Temple is brightly lit and can be seen throughout the Bay Area. Devotionals, concerts, and performances are hosted throughout the month in the Temple Hill Auditorium and most events are free.
CHECKLIST
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Car charger and portable battery
Water bottles and snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Sunglasses and sunscreen
First-aid kit
Trash bags
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Driver’s license and vehicle registration
Cash and cards
Camera or smartphone
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the driving distance between New York and Santa Cruz?
The distance is 2,973 miles
What's the travel time between New York and Santa Cruz?
The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it is typically 52h 34m mins in normal traffic
What are some of the best cities to visit between New York and Santa Cruz?
Some popular stops include
Are there any cool sights or attractions I shouldn't miss on my drive to Santa Cruz?
There are plenty! Here are some stops you shouldn’t miss on your way to Santa Cruz
What’s the weather like in Santa Cruz?
The weather in Santa Cruz is generally mild year-round, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. See the links below for more information
Weather in Santa Cruz in January
Weather in Santa Cruz in February
Weather in Santa Cruz in March
Weather in Santa Cruz in April
Weather in Santa Cruz in May
Weather in Santa Cruz in June
Weather in Santa Cruz in July
Weather in Santa Cruz in August
Weather in Santa Cruz in September
Weather in Santa Cruz in October
Weather in Santa Cruz in November
Weather in Santa Cruz in December
Interested in a detailed plan for your time in Santa Cruz?
Plan your dream Santa Cruz trip with our daily itineraries featuring must-see attractions! See them here!
A 1-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
A 2-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
A 3-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
A 4-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
A 5-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
A 6-day itinerary in Santa Cruz
Where else can I travel to if I'm starting my trip in New York?
We have a lot of great trip options for New York! See the links below for all the itineraries we created for you
