3-Day Driving Trip: Las Vegas to San Pedro via Route 66 with Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam & Joshua Tree Stops

Day 1: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon & Route 66 Highlights

Morning: Depart from Las Vegas early and drive to the iconic Hoover Dam for a guided tour and photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Continue to the Grand Canyon South Rim via Route 66 proximity stops, enjoying breathtaking views and short hikes along the rim.

Evening: Check into a nearby hotel such as the El Tovar Hotel or Yavapai Lodge inside the Grand Canyon National Park and enjoy dinner with canyon views.

Day 2: Route 66 Exploration & Joshua Tree National Park

Morning: Drive along historic Route 66, stopping at classic towns like Seligman and Kingman for breakfast and vintage Americana sights.

Afternoon: Head south towards Joshua Tree National Park, exploring its unique desert landscape, rock formations, and short nature trails.

Evening: Stay overnight in the Joshua Tree area with options like Joshua Tree Inn or nearby hotels in Twentynine Palms, enjoying stargazing in the desert night.

Day 3: Joshua Tree to San Pedro via Coastal Route

Morning: Take a relaxed morning walk in Joshua Tree, then drive west towards San Pedro, stopping briefly in Barstow for a Route 66 diner lunch.

Afternoon: Continue your drive towards San Pedro, CA, enjoying coastal views and arriving in time to visit the USS Iowa Battleship Museum.

Evening: Check into a comfortable hotel like the San Pedro Waterfront Hotel and dine with views of the harbor to conclude your trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hoover Dam: 2 hours - $15 per person (tour fee)
• Grand Canyon South Rim: 4-5 hours - $35 per vehicle entrance fee
• Route 66 Stops (Seligman, Kingman): 3 hours - Free (food and souvenirs extra)
• Joshua Tree National Park: 3-4 hours - $30 per vehicle entrance fee
• USS Iowa Battleship Museum: 2 hours - $25 per person
• Hotel stays (3 nights average): Approximately $150 per night = $450 total

Total Estimated Cost: $560+ (excluding meals, fuel, and souvenirs)

Tips

For travelers who want to extend the trip, consider adding an extra day to explore more of Route 66’s quirky towns or spend additional time hiking in the Grand Canyon or Joshua Tree. To reduce trip duration, skip some Route 66 stops and limit time at Joshua Tree, heading directly from the Grand Canyon to San Pedro on Day 3.