LA to Sacramento Road Trip

Kick off your road trip with a quick half-hour drive to Santa Clarita, which is home to the thill-packed Six Flags Magic Mountain, where you can ride world-famous roller coasters and other adrenaline-pumping rides. Don’t worry if roller coasters aren’t quite your vibe – there’s still plenty to explore at a slower pace, including the William S. Hart Museum, which offers you a chance to step back in time and experience California’s Old West heritage. 

Just 30-40 minutes from Santa Clarita lies Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, a must-see for movie buffs and nature lovers. These amazing rock formations have starred in countless movies and TV shows, from Star Trek to The Flintstones, so it’s an ideal spot for taking interesting photos or simply stretching your legs in some otherworldly scenery. Several hiking trails weave through the rocks, too, making it the perfect spot for a picnic and quick adventure before you hit the road again.

If your road tripping during the spring, you absolutely have to make a stop at the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve. During the bloom season, these fields transform into a paradise of orange flowers as far as the eye can see, and even off-season, it’s a peaceful place with scenic walking trails that showcase California’s natural beauty. This is also a photographer’s dream destination and a great way to breathe in some fresh air before hitting the highway.

The next stop of your adventure should be Tehachapi, a little mountain town that is packed with character. It is best known for its massive wind farms and rolling hills, which give you a scenic break from the highway and a place to unwind for a while. Don’t miss the Tehachapi Loop while you’re here, which is a rare engineering marvel where trains take a full loop on a spiral track! It’s also a great place to grab a coffee and a snack while soaking up the small-town California atmosphere.

Just about an hour from Tehachapi, Bakersfield is another unique town that’s definitely worth a visit as you make your way along the road. There’s a deep-rooted music heritage here, and you should take the time to stop by Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, where you can enjoy live music or explore the amazing dining scene at Bakersfield’s famous Basque restaurants. Whether you’re into music or food, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere that will make it one of the most memorable stops on your road trip. 

This one is for outdoor enthusiasts! From kayaking and white-water rafting to fishing and swimming, there are endless possibilities for adventure here, regardless of the time of year. The cooler months, in particular, offer amazing hikes with incredible views that stretch along the riverbanks. And, when night falls, the dark skies provide some of the best stargazing in the country. 

While it’s a little bit of a detour, no trip from LA to Sacramento would be complete without visiting Sequoia National Forest. This is home to some of the largest trees on Earth, and as you walk through the Trail of 100 Giants, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into an ancient, towering wonderland! The fresh mountain air here is a perfect reset from freeway driving, too, and there are even some campgrounds where you can park up and fall asleep under a canopy of stars, surrounded by these giants. 

Fresno is a fantastic place to stop if you’re looking for a mix of quirky and cool attractions. We recommend starting at the Forestiere Underground Gardens, a century-old network of subterranean rooms and gardens that were hand-dug by an Italian immigrant, offering an enchanting escape from the heat and giving you a sense of Fresno’s history. Once you’re done exploring there, head to Fresno’s Tower District to sample some delicious food and drinks at the numerous eateries and bars. Or, if you’re planning to stay the night, visit some nearby vineyards for a spot of wine tasting!

If you’re looking to take a day or two away from the steering wheel, a visit to Yosemite National Park offers the perfect break. There are some of the most beautiful sights in America here, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalvel Fall, all of which are worth visiting. This really is a magical place where you can reconnect with nature and explore at your own pace before heading back on the road to Sacramento.

As you head back west, Modesto is a fun place to stop and has a cool, retro vibe that adds to its friendly atmosphere. Arguably best known for being the birthplace of filmmaker George Lucas, this place inspired the classic film American Graffiti, and you can relive the nostalgia by checking out the Modesto Historic Graffiti Cruise Route. 

Lodi is the Zinfandel capital of the world, so it’s definitely a stop to make if you’re a wine lover! The Lodi Wine & Visitor Center is a great place to start your exploration, and not only will you learn more about the long history of wine production here, but you’ll also get the opportunity to taste a variety of different wines. As you can imagine, the vineyards here also make for some amazing photos, as well as a place to chill out and take in the views of the rolling hills.

Just before you hit Sacramento, make a stop at Elk Grove and bask in the relaxing atmosphere and greenery. This is a wonderful place to pull up with a picnic or take a quick walk by a lake, and if you’re looking for something family-friendly, Rancho Cordova’s nearby Sacramento Children’s Museum is always a hit with kids. Even if you’re traveling solo, this is the perfect place to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air before rolling into the busy Sacramento scene.

You’ve finally made it to Sacramento, but the fun doesn’t stop here! With its Gold Rush history and foodie scene, there’s plenty to discover. Start with a stroll through Old Sacramento, where the wooden sidewalks and historic buildings will transport you back in time. The California State Railroad Museum is another fantastic spot to visit (especially for kids), while the Crocker Art Museum is home to an impressive collection of Californian and international art. And, after all that exploring, you can unwind in Capitol Park’s beautiful gardens or grab a bit to eat at one of several trendy restaurants.

A Los Angeles to Sacramento road trip is more than a simple drive, despite covering just 385 miles. It’s a journey through some of California’s most interesting landscapes and cultural landmarks. With Travellers Autobarn, you can rent a campervan with unlimited miles and explore the routes at your own pace, giving you the time to check out every stop on this list while sticking to your own schedule.

Don’t want the fun to end in Sacramento? Check out some other Los Angeles road trips and make the fun last even longer!