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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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From Alabama To California Road Trip Itinerary

Trip Overview: Alabama to California Road Trip

Embark on an epic road trip from Alabama to California, exploring diverse landscapes and vibrant cities along the way. Begin your journey in Birmingham, Alabama, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and savor delicious Southern cuisine. Next, head to Memphis, Tennessee, known for its blues music, Graceland, and iconic BBQ restaurants. From there, make your way to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, a city with a unique blend of cowboy culture, modern attractions, and a vibrant arts scene.

Continue westward to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where you can experience the rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, explore stunning desert landscapes, and immerse yourself in a vibrant arts and culture scene. Journey further to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon in Arizona, one of the world's seven natural wonders, offering breathtaking views and amazing hiking opportunities. Then, indulge in the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, Nevada, the entertainment capital of the world, renowned for its world-class shows, casinos, and vibrant nightlife. Finally, reach your destination in Los Angeles, California, home to Hollywood, beautiful beaches, diverse cultural attractions, and world-class dining and shopping.

This road trip promises an unforgettable adventure, filled with scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and iconic landmarks that showcase the rich tapestry of the American West.


Recommended Activities

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    Birmingham, Alabama

    Rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious Southern cuisine
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Memphis, Tennessee

    Home of blues music, Graceland, and iconic BBQ restaurants
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin3

    Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

    Unique blend of cowboy culture, modern attractions, and vibrant arts scene
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin4

    Albuquerque, New Mexico

    Rich Native American and Hispanic heritage, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant arts and culture scene
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin5

    Grand Canyon, Arizona

    One of the world's seven natural wonders, breathtaking views, and amazing hiking opportunities
    Open Google Maps Button
  • Trip Point Pin6

    Las Vegas, Nevada

    Entertainment capital of the world, world-class shows, casinos, and vibrant nightlife
    Open Google Maps Button
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    Los Angeles, California

    Home to Hollywood, beautiful beaches, diverse cultural attractions, and world-class dining and shopping
    Open Google Maps Button

Restaurants

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Bright Star

    The Bright Star

    Oldest restaurant in Alabama, known for its Greek-style steak and seafood dishes
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    The Arcade Restaurant

    The Arcade Restaurant

    Memphis' oldest cafe, offering traditional Southern cuisine and a historic, retro vibe
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    Cattlemen's Steakhouse

    Cattlemen's Steakhouse

    Iconic Oklahoma City steakhouse with a rich history and classic Western ambiance
    Picture for Cattlemen's Steakhouse
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    The Acoma Pueblo Sky City Cultural Center & Haak'u Museum

    The Acoma Pueblo Sky City Cultural Center & Haak'u Museum

    Restaurant offering traditional Native American cuisine and stunning views atop a 367-foot sandstone bluff
    Picture for The Acoma Pueblo Sky City Cultural Center & Haak'u Museum
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    The El Tovar Dining Room

    The El Tovar Dining Room

    Historic fine dining restaurant with magnificent views of the Grand Canyon and exquisite Southwestern cuisine
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    Eiffel Tower Restaurant

    Eiffel Tower Restaurant

    Las Vegas fine dining restaurant offering French cuisine with a stunning view of the Las Vegas Strip
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    In-N-Out Burger - Westwood

    In-N-Out Burger - Westwood

    Iconic California burger joint known for its classic menu and time-honored traditions
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  • Perch

    Rooftop bistro with French-inspired fare and panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles
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Hotels

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    The Admiral Hotel

    The Admiral Hotel

    Historic boutique hotel in Birmingham known for its unique nautical theme and upscale accommodations
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    The Guest House at Graceland

    The Guest House at Graceland

    Luxurious hotel inspired by Elvis Presley, offering elegant rooms and a convenient location near Graceland
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    The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

    The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

    Elegant, historic hotel with a storied past, luxurious amenities, and a reputed haunted history
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    The View Hotel

    The View Hotel

    Hotel situated within Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, offering unparalleled views of the stunning rock formations
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    The Venetian Resort

    The Venetian Resort

    Opulent Las Vegas hotel with Italian-inspired architecture, gondola rides, and lavish, spacious accommodations
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    The Queen Mary

    The Queen Mary

    Iconic ocean liner turned hotel, steeped in history and offering a unique maritime stay in Long Beach
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Local Events & Happenings

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    The Avett Brothers w/ Iron and Wine

    The Avett Brothers w/ Iron and Wine

    The event will take place at Kit Carson Park in Taos.
    Map IconKit Carson Park in Taos (112.17 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Jul 2024
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    Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

    Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

    The event will take place at Globe News Center for the Performing Arts in Amarillo.
    Map IconGlobe News Center for the Performing Arts in Amarillo (116.18 mi)
    Calendar Icon29 Jul 2024
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    Future Islands

    Future Islands

    The event will take place at Santa Fe Brewing Company Brewery in Santa Fe.
    Map IconSanta Fe Brewing Company Brewery in Santa Fe (121.55 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Sep 2024
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    Mat Kearney

    Mat Kearney

    The event will take place at Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe.
    Map IconLensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe (121.66 mi)
    Calendar Icon12 Nov 2024
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    Brad Williams: Tour '24

    Brad Williams: Tour '24

    The event will take place at Lensic Theatre in Santa Fe.
    Map IconLensic Theatre in Santa Fe (122.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon2 Nov 2024
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    UB40

    UB40

    The event will take place at Santa Fe Sol in Santa Fe.
    Map IconSanta Fe Sol in Santa Fe (126.95 mi)
    Calendar Icon6 Aug 2024
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    Orville Peck w/ Jaime Wyatt

    Orville Peck w/ Jaime Wyatt

    The event will take place at Santa Fe Sol in Santa Fe.
    Map IconSanta Fe Sol in Santa Fe (126.95 mi)
    Calendar Icon7 Aug 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    I am planning my second major road trip starting from Alabama and going all the way up to Washington, Down through Oregon, South through California

    Planning my Second Road Trip from Alabama through CO, WY, OR ...

    I am planning my second major road trip starting from Alabama and going all the way up to Washington, Down through Oregon, South through California

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Posted by u/[Deleted Account] - 9 votes and 29 comments

    Planning on a road-trip from Athens Alabama to San Jose California ...

    Posted by u/[Deleted Account] - 9 votes and 29 comments

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    Summer Road Trip from Birmingham, AL to Los Angeles, CA Route ...

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    SENIOR ROADTRIP!! Alabama to California, one month.

    Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Ed...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Okay so I am thinking of doing a roadtrip with my buddy and going cross country. We have two weeks to d othis, so we are thinking about driving

    Roadtrip from East Alabama to California - Route Ideas?

    Okay so I am thinking of doing a roadtrip with my buddy and going cross country. We have two weeks to d othis, so we are thinking about driving

    /r/travel

Music for Your Journey

  • Music Icon

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads

    A classic road trip anthem celebrating the beauty of rural landscapes and the longing for home
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads
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    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    Chuck Berry - Route 66

    An iconic song about the famous highway, evoking the spirit of adventure and exploration
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Chuck Berry - Route 66
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    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway

    A high-energy, upbeat track symbolizing the journey of life and the excitement of travel
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Rascal Flatts - Life is a Highway
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    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live

    A timeless tune capturing the freedom and joy of traveling, perfect for a road trip soundtrack
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Willie Nelson - On The Road Again - Live
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    Joni Mitchell Tribute by Strings Attached - Big Yellow Taxi

    Joni Mitchell Tribute by Strings Attached - Big Yellow Taxi

    A reflective song that highlights the importance of appreciating the beauty of the environment and its preservation
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Joni Mitchell Tribute by Strings Attached - Big Yellow Taxi
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    The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' - Single Version

    The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' - Single Version

    A melodic reflection on longing and homesickness, with a dreamy, wistful sound
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' - Single Version
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    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    A haunting, mysterious song evoking themes of luxury, excess, and the captivating allure of California
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster
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    Elvis Presley - Viva Las Vegas

    Elvis Presley - Viva Las Vegas

    A lively, catchy tune capturing the excitement and energy of the bustling city of Las Vegas
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Elvis Presley - Viva Las Vegas
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    Phoebe Bridgers - Graceland Too

    Phoebe Bridgers - Graceland Too

    A soulful, introspective song reflecting on the themes of identity, journey, and the desire for exploration
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for Phoebe Bridgers - Graceland Too
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    The Drifters - Under the Boardwalk

    The Drifters - Under the Boardwalk

    A feel-good, nostalgic track celebrating carefree summer days and romantic beachside strolls
    Listen on Spotify
    Picture for The Drifters - Under the Boardwalk