Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Detroit, Michigan to Los Angeles, California
Taking a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Los Angeles, California, offers a chance to traverse the heart of America, experience diverse landscapes, and explore vibrant cities along the way. Stretching over 2,000 miles, this unforgettable journey features significant stops and attractions that showcase the best of the journey. Travelers will find themselves immersed in history, culture, and nature, while sampling local cuisine, sightseeing at iconic landmarks, and enjoying roadside attractions. An essential halfway point occurs in Brush, Colorado, a quiet town that provides a glimpse into rural life and serves as a perfect rest stop before heading deeper into the Rockies.
1. Visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, is a must-see for history buffs and those who appreciate American ingenuity. This museum houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts, including the presidential limousine used by Abraham Lincoln and the first Ford Model T. Visitors can also explore the nearby Greenfield Village, an outdoor living history museum that showcases America’s past through preserved buildings and demonstrations from different eras.
Interesting Fact: The Henry Ford Museum is named after its founder, Henry Ford, who was not only the creator of the assembly line but also a pioneer in utilizing mass production techniques in the automotive industry.
2. Experience the Great Sand Dunes National Park
As travelers continue westward, the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado presents an awe-inspiring natural landscape. Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, this park is perfect for hiking, sandboarding, and even picnicking. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the unique terrain to stargazing at night, as the lack of artificial light creates a spectacular view of the stars.
Interesting Fact: The tallest dune in the park, called Star Dune, rises over 750 feet high and is still actively shaped by winds, making it a dynamic site for exploration.
3. Explore Mesa Verde National Park
Nationally recognized for its historical significance, Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. Visitors can hike to stunning viewpoints or take guided tours to enter these remarkable sites. The park serves as a reminder of the ingenuity of Native American culture and offers an educational experience for families and solo travelers alike.
Interesting Fact: Mesa Verde is home to over 4,300 archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings, demonstrating the complex society that thrived before European contact.
4. Wander through the Grand Canyon National Park
A road trip to Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Known for its breathtaking vistas, the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors each year. Hikers can tackle trails along the rim or venture into the canyon itself for a more immersive experience. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the views create unforgettable memories for onlookers.
Interesting Fact: The Grand Canyon is approximately 277 miles long and over a mile deep, showcasing millions of years of geological history through its layers of rock.
5. Stroll the Walk of Fame in Hollywood
Upon arrival in Los Angeles, a visit to the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame is essential. This world-renowned sidewalk honors stars from the entertainment industry, featuring over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, snapping photos with their favorite stars while experiencing the vibrant culture surrounding this historic location.
Interesting Fact: The first star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was dedicated in 1960 to actress Joanne Woodward, and since then, numerous celebrities from film, television, radio, and music have been honored with a star.
In total, the drive covering approximately 2,500 miles takes around 36 to 40 hours, depending on the chosen route and stops along the way. The journey from Detroit to Los Angeles presents road trippers with unforgettable experiences, stunning landscapes, local delicacies, and the rich history of America, making it an adventure worth taking at least once in a lifetime.