Best Places to Stop and Stay Overnight While Driving Across America

Embarking on a cross-country journey across America can be a memorable experience, but finding a place to stay overnight can be both challenging and essential. There's a wide array of options available to travelers, from luxurious hotels to cozy campgrounds. Whether you're traveling solo, with a family, or in a group, there are plenty of places to rest your head at night.

Choosing Your Accommodation

The choice of accommodation largely depends on your preferences. If you prefer a hotel or motel, you can find options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. However, if you prefer the great outdoors, the National Parks, State Parks, and government service facilities, as well as commercial campgrounds, offer endless possibilities. It's also worth considering overnight trains, which provide a unique and comfortable experience as you travel through the night, waking up in new locations.

My Experience: Seven Travels Across America

Since 1983 to 2018, I have traveled across the United States seven or eight times, each trip lasting from two weeks to eight weeks. We never booked accommodation in advance, as it often didn't prove beneficial. We found that looking for places to stay along the way and choosing based on convenience was more productive. Our consistent strategy was to start our journey early, ideally before sunrise, and arrive at our next destination at least two hours before sunset. This approach often meant having more options and generally finding better accommodations than the ones we had booked in advance. We always kept our options open to hit the next destination if all accommodations were fully booked.

Highlights from My Trips

One of our longest trips took us two months to complete. We started in Los Angeles, picked up a rental car from the airport, and stayed for two or three days. We then traveled along Highway One and the California coast, reaching San Francisco, where we continued to Avenue of The Giant and the Oregon coast. From Seattle, we made a detour to Vancouver and Victoria before heading to the Canadian Rockies to experience the glaciers and lakes. From there, the journey took us to Montana and Wyoming, followed by a visit to Yellowstone National Park. After the park, we headed to Salt Lake City to float in the salt lake waters. We then made our way east along Highway 80, including Wyoming, Omaha, Nebraska, Des Moines, Iowa, and then crossed the Mississippi to Chicago, Illinois, and Toledo, Ohio. We continued our journey through Highway 80, visiting the Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and then stayed with friends in Toronto, where we experienced horse racing. Our two young kids found it to be the most exciting thing to see. We then enjoyed the vibrant cities of Montreal and Quebec, making our way down to New York City with panoramic views of the skyline.

Top Travel Accommodation Options

For those who prefer hotels and motels, there are many options available. Some of the best places to stop and stay include:

Interstate Hotels: These are often found not far from major highways and offer a convenient stay for travelers. They are well-equipped with amenities and provide a comfortable resting place. National Parks Campgrounds: If you enjoy nature, you might consider staying in one of the many campgrounds within the National Parks. These offer breathtaking views and a unique camping experience. Overnight Trains: If you prefer a hassle-free travel experience, consider staying on an overnight train. This mode of travel provides a comfortable stay and allows you to adjust the pace of your journey.

Each of these options has its own charm and can provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for comfort, nature, or a unique travel experience, you're sure to find a place that suits you.

Conclusion

When planning a cross-country journey across America, it's important to choose accommodation carefully. Whether you prefer a hotel, motel, or the great outdoors, there are plenty of options available. Starting your journey early and keeping your options open increases your chances of finding a comfortable and suitable place to rest your head at night. With the right choice, your cross-country adventure can be more memorable and enjoyable.