17 day itinerary
Alaska
Itinerary
What an exciting adventure you have ahead of you! A 17-day road trip to Alaska from , Virginia, is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unique culture of the Last Frontier. Buckle up, because I’ve crafted an itinerary that balances driving, sightseeing, and some relaxation time. Let’s hit the road!
Day 1: , VA to , TN
- Drive Time: About 10 hours
- Plan: Start your journey early! Enjoy the scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Once in , explore the vibrant music scene. Visit the and grab dinner at a local BBQ joint.
Day 2: , TN to , TN
- Drive Time: About 3 hours
- Plan: Head to in the morning. Visit , the home of Elvis Presley, and take a stroll down for some live music and delicious soul food.
Day 3: , TN to , AR
- Drive Time: About 2 hours
- Plan: A short drive to ! Visit the and take a walk along the . Enjoy a leisurely evening in the River Market District.
Day 4: , AR to , OK
- Drive Time: About 3 hours
- Plan: Drive to . Visit the and explore , a revitalized warehouse district with shops and restaurants.
Day 5: , OK to , TX
- Drive Time: About 4 hours
- Plan: Head to . Stop by the famous for some quirky roadside art. Enjoy a hearty meal at the , famous for its 72 oz steak challenge!
Day 6: , TX to , NM
- Drive Time: About 4 hours
- Plan: Drive to , known for its Pueblo-style architecture. Explore the historic Plaza, visit the , and enjoy some New Mexican cuisine.
Day 7: , NM to , AZ
- Drive Time: About 4 hours
- Plan: Head to . On the way, consider a detour to the stunning . In , explore the downtown area and grab dinner at a local brewery.
Day 8: , AZ to , NV
- Drive Time: About 4 hours
- Plan: Drive to . Spend the evening exploring the Strip, catching a show, or trying your luck at the casinos. Don’t forget to check out the !
Day 9: , NV to , CA
- Drive Time: About 4 hours
- Plan: Head to . Spend the day visiting iconic spots like , , and . Enjoy a beach sunset!
Day 10: , CA to , CA
- Drive Time: About 6 hours
- Plan: Drive up the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (if time allows). In , visit the , , and take a ride on a cable car.
Day 11: , CA to , OR
- Drive Time: About 10 hours
- Plan: A long drive today! Arrive in and unwind. Explore the local food scene, perhaps at the famous food trucks, and check out .
Day 12: , OR to , WA
- Drive Time: About 3 hours
- Plan: A short drive to ! Visit , the , and enjoy some fresh seafood. If you have time, take a ferry ride to .
Day 13: , WA to , AK (Flight)
- Plan: Fly from to . Once you arrive, pick up your rental car and explore downtown . Visit the and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 14: , AK to , AK
- Drive Time: About 2.5 hours
- Plan: Drive to , a charming coastal town. Take a wildlife cruise in to see glaciers and marine life. Spend the night in .
Day 15: , AK to , AK
- Drive Time: About 3.5 hours
- Plan: Head to , a quirky little town. Explore the local shops and enjoy the stunning views of (weather permitting). Consider a flightseeing tour for breathtaking views of the mountain.
Day 16: , AK to , AK
- Drive Time: About 2 hours
- Plan: Return to . Spend your last day exploring any sights you missed, like or the . Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local eatery.
Day 17: , AK to , VA (Flight)
- Plan: Fly back to , VA. Reflect on your incredible journey through Alaska and the beautiful landscapes you’ve experienced!
And there you have it! A road trip filled with diverse landscapes, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories. Make sure to check road conditions and book accommodations in advance, especially in popular areas. Have a fantastic trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌲🚗✨
