Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip between two iconic cities in the US? Join us as we explore the best of Los Angeles and Phoenix with a journey along the famous I-10 highway. On this thrilling route, you’ll experience stunning natural views, take advantage of unique attractions, and visit some must-see sites. From historic roadside landmarks to jaw-dropping national parks, here are some unmissable stops on your LA – Phoenix road trip adventure!
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Ready to hit the open road? Buckle up your seatbelts, and let’s get started! The first stop on our journey is:
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA
951-784-0300
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a National Historic Landmark member of the renowned Historic Hotels of America. It draws inspiration from Europe’s castles with a design masterminded by some of California’s most popular architects. If you find yourself in Riverside, stay overnight to get the full experience; or if you’re passing through, make sure to sightsee this hotel–you’ll feel like you’re really in Spain!
Cabazon Outlet
48750 Seminole Dr Ste 100, Cabazon, CA
951-922-3000
https://www.cabazonoutlets.com/
Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Thursdays Closed
If you’re looking for a fun shopping experience during your road trip from LA to Phoenix, then make sure to add Cabazon Outlet to your itinerary. Located halfway between Los Angeles and Phoenix off Interstate 10, this outlet mall has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for apparel items, accessories, or home décor, something here will surely spark your interest. Plus, since it’s an outlet center, you can find great discounts on top brands all year round.
After taking advantage of the amazing deals at Cabazon Outlet, don’t forget to treat yourself to some delicious food at one of the various eateries located within the mall. With its wide selection of stores and restaurants, Cabazon Outlet will surely provide a fun shopping experience that will make your LA to Phoenix road trip one to remember!
Cabazon Dinosaurs
50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA
951-272-8167
https://www.cabazondinosaurs.com/
Hours: Daily 10 AM-5 PM, Saturdays & Sundays till 8 PM
This fun roadside attraction is a must-see on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Along the way, you can explore two larger-than-life dinosaurs – Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex – at Cabazon Dinosaurs in Cabazon, California, with no entrance fee. Inside their mouths are great gift shops full of exciting dinosaur memorabilia, such as tees, toys, and books. Enjoy this cool spot along the road!
Palm Springs Tram
1 Tram Way, Palm Springs, CA
760-325-1391
Hours: Daily 10 AM-8 PM, Saturdays & Sundays 8 AM-8 PM
Make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your list of must-see sites on your journey from LA to Phoenix. This popular attraction in Palm Springs, California, offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Coachella Valley and Mount San Jacinto in the San Bernardino National Forest. Hop on board one of the two rotating trams for a 10-minute ride up 8,516 feet into the mountains.
Once you reach the top, marvel at awe-inspiring panoramic views while having lunch or dinner at Peaks Restaurant before heading back down. Whether you visit during the day or night, you’ll be captivated by an unforgettable experience that can only be achieved with a ride on the world’s largest rotating tramcar! So take advantage of this incredible opportunity and make sure to add the Palm Springs Tram to your road trip from LA to Phoenix.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a must-see if you’re looking for a spectacular experience on your road trip from LA to Phoenix. This stunning desert park is home to the iconic Joshua tree, which earned its name from Mormon settlers who thought the twisted branches of these trees resembled the outstretched arms of Joshua leading them into the Promised Land.
You can explore over 800,000 acres of desert terrain filled with mountains and valleys, sprawling cholla cactus gardens, and incredible rock formations that are a haven for climbers. Take a hike to Keys View or Ryan Mountain for stunning views of the park. Or take advantage of the star gazing opportunities this park offers – you can easily spot constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way in the clear night sky. Don’t let Joshua Tree National Park pass you on your road trip – it’s an unforgettable experience worth all your time!
Although the national park is now open for everyone to enjoy, we recommend that visitors look at the alerts and conditions before coming. All the information can be found here.
Salton Sea State Park
100225 State Park Rd, Mecca, CA
760-393-3059
https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=639
Hours: Open 24 hours
This picturesque park, situated on the shores of the Salton Sea, is a great place for a picnic or to take a walk along the beach and admire its bird-filled waters. In addition to its stunning views, visitors can enjoy fishing and camping in this tranquil setting. The nearby trails are perfect for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. After exploring this dreamy destination, you’ll be ready to continue your road trip with lasting memories.
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
9300 E. 28th Street Yuma, AZ
928-783-7861
https://www.fws.gov/refuge/kofa
To reach the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, you will have to take a detour, but it is worth your time. An impressive 600,000 acres of this refuge remain untouched by man. The region includes attractions such as the Castle Dome Mine Museum and the Kofa Mountains in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. The Castle Dome Mine Museum replicates an old mining town from 1878. You can camp anywhere in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, as long as it’s not too close to a waterhole.
While there, keep your eyes peeled for some of the rarest flora and fauna species – or enjoy the more common palm trees scattered across the landscape. You might even encounter desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife while camping here.
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open to the public, we encourage visitors to take the precautions outlined here.
Skyline Regional Park
2600 N Watson Rd, Buckeye, AZ
623-349-6350
https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/community/skyline-regional-park
Hours: Daily 5 AM-10 PM
Skyline Regional Park is the perfect spot to end your road trip from LA to Phoenix. Situated in Buckeye, AZ, this sprawling park offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape and a variety of activities for everyone. Skyline Regional Park also offers rock climbing areas and mountain biking trails for those looking for adventure.
No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take in the views of the Sonoran Desert. With 360-degree views, it provides a grand finale to your road trip from LA to Phoenix that you won’t soon forget!
Remember to check alerts and conditions before visiting. You can find the information on their website.
To wrap up, a road trip from LA to Phoenix is the perfect way to explore all that this part of the country has to offer. From majestic national parks and wildlife refuges to picturesque beaches, you’ll find some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Make sure to check alerts and conditions before visiting each destination along the way. Have an incredible journey!
Happy travels! Enjoy your journey and all of these amazing sights!
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